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H^HhciM 


War  of  I8t2  Series      <    \ 


■^\ 


THE 


Search  for  Andrew  Field  : 


A  Story  of  the  Times  of  1812 


BY 


EVERETT  T.TOMLINSON 


1  i 


_^<.S  Of  CG(Vff, 


Of  w^';^' 


..o^<-?^ 


1.^ 


y 


LEE  AND  SHEPARD  Publishers 

10  MILK  STREET 
BOSTON 


\ 


\^ 


I.] 


A 


^ 


.v\ 


'O 


^ 


On. 


\ 


& 


CoPTRIOHr,  1804, 
Bv  L£E  AND  SllEPARD 

AH  right!  reterved 
Search  for  Andrew  Field 


■  ■ 


Slntbcrsits  9rt«»: 
John  Wilson  and  Son,  Cambridge,  U.  S.  A. 


^ 


J?  ■" 


PREFACE 


THE  War  of  1812  is  a  field  which  has  received 
comparatively  slight  attention  from  modern 
story  writers.  The  romance  of  the  Revolution  and 
that  of  the  Civil  War  has  been  more  marked  because 
the  issues  of  those  wars  were  more  apparent. 

And  yet  while  the  causes  and  results  of  the  war 
of  1812  were  not  so  manifest  as  those  of  the  other 
wars,  they  were  no  less  real.  It  was  a  time  for  the 
development  of  internal,  national  qualities,  and  the 
confidence  and  self-respect  acquired  were  not  the  least 
of  the  results  of  the  struggle. 

This  story  and  those  that  are  to  follow  it  were  born 
of  a  desire  to  give  our  younger  people  an  insight 
into  the  conditions  of  the  times  of  1812,  a  history  of 
that  war,  and  a  glimpse  at  its  results. 

It  is  hoped  that  this  book  will  create  a  desire  to 
follow  the  fortunes  of  our  heroes  through  the  various 
battles  on  land  and  sea,  and  that  the  lessons  of  man- 
liness which  the  times  demandf'  '^f  the  boys  as  well 
as  of  the  men  may  not  be  wholly  lost. 


EVERETT  T.  TOMLINSON 


Jdne,  1894 


mak 


T 


CONTENTS 


CifArruB  Paok 

I.  "Pressed" 9 

II.  The  News  at  Home 20 

III.  A  Trip  to  Kingston 29 

IV.  David  forms  a  Plan 37 

V.  A  Night  Adventure 46 

VI.  An  Escape 65 

VII.  Andrew's  Experience  on  the  Osprey    .     .  64 

VIII.  Baffled  again 73 

IX.  Another  Voyage  begun 82 

X.  Visiting 91 

XI.  An  Exchange  of  Boats 100 

XII.  Outwitted 108 

XIII.  A  DiSCQVERV 117 

XIV.  An  Addition 126 

XV.  The  Hermit's  Story 133 

XVI.  Another  Boat I42 

XVII.  Another  Voyage  begun 150 

XVIII.  At  Kingston 158 

XIX.  A  Trip  to  the  Osprey I66 

XX.  An  Escape  from  the  Osprey 174 

XXI.  A   SURPISE    AT   THE    HeRMIT'S    II0.ME        .      .       .  183 


n 


%^ 


VI  CONTENTS 

ClIAI'TKU 

XXII.  TiiK  IIioimit's  DiscovF.nv 

XXIII.  A    riUSONKK 

XXI  V^  A   CaIKIO    Kdll    TIIK    HOAT   . 

XXV.  A  NidiiT  Sail  amunm  thk  I.si 

XXVI.  An  Imeiimission      .     .     . 

XXVII.  A   ClIANUK    I.N    TlIK  Coi'llSK 

XXVIH.  WaTCUI.MJ    TIlKlll    NKKillBOIlS 

XXIX.  A.N  Additio.n  to  thk  Fleet 

XXX.  The  Voyaoe  kesumed     .    . 

XXXI.  The  Pklsonek's  Expkkience 

XXXII.  The  Voyaoe  coxtinued  .     . 

XXXIII.  An  Exciting  Race  .... 

XXXIV.  A  Sad  Home-coming    .    .    . 
XXXV.  Conclusion 


M)-* 


PAflK 
1!)2 

201 
209 
217 
22(1 
23r> 

2i;i 

251 
260 

2G9 
278 
287 
2!)« 
305 


I 


1% 


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L 


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pAdK 

201 
200 
217 
22« 
23r> 
2t;i 
251 
2fiO 
2G9 
278 
287 
290 
305 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 

Paok 
"What's  that  white  spot  ahead  thehe''"  .    .  Frontiapiece  t^ 

OnI.V    a    little    IH9TANCE    FKOM    THEM    WAS   A   SHIP      ....         15    ^ 

Crawling  through  the  winhow,  David  let  himu.i.f  fall      56  ^ 

"  Here,  what  are  voij  doing  ?  "  called  David      ....  103  ^. 

They  waited  for  the  stranoeh  to  approach 125 

Thev  both  orauued  him  and  lifted  him  into  the  boat  .  180 

"i  clapped  the  n009b  right  over  his  head" 208 

The   HERMIT  HAD  GRASPED  HIS  GUN 278 


is 


■'V 


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rfMM 


'   I 


THE 


SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  I 

"pressed" 

TT  was  a  warm,  bright  day  near  the  close  of 
J-  May,  1812.  On  the  blue  waters  of  Lake  Ontario, 
near  the  eastern  shore,  there  was  a  little  boat  in 
which  sat  two  young  men.  The  elder  of  these  was 
Andrew  Field,  and  in  the  bow  of  the  little  skiff  sat 
David,  his  younger  brother.  All  through  the  morn- 
ing these  two  had  been  there  fishing.  In  the  bottom 
of  the  boat  lay  some  of  the  bass  with  which  the 
lake  then  abounded. 

It  was  not  often  in  these  days  that  a  holiday  could 
be  had.  But  Andrew's  father  had  well  known  how 
hard  he  had  been  working  all  the  spring  in  felling  the 
trees,  and  turning  up  the  sod  of  this  newly  settled 
country.  For  their  father  only  ten  years  before  had 
left  his  New  England  home,  where  misfortunes  had 
multiplied,  to  seek  a  new  home  in  this  wilderness 


if 


1^ 


:■ 


fti 


jK 


^ 


K 


1 


10 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"  out  West."  It  is  true  that  now  they  had  neighbors,  . 
and  good  neighbors  too,  but  the  pioneer  life  was  hard, 
and  a  day  free  from  toil  was  ahnost  unknown.  David's 
worlc  had  been  largely  that  of  burning  the  trees  which 
his  father  and  brother  cut,  in  making  pearlash  and 
potash ;  and  the  last  sale  had  been  one  that  made 
these  farmer  boys  feel  rich,  and  the  holiday  was  the 
reward  at  home. 

But  a  lull  had  just  come  in  their  sport.  The  bass 
seemed  satisfied,  or  else  had  sought  other  grounds ; 
and  Andrew  and  David  had  waited,  but  the  fish 
were  no  longer  biting.  A  change  of  bait  brought  no 
better  results. 

"  I  don't  believe  we  shall  get  any  more  fish  here," 
said  Andrew.  "Let's  go  down  the  shore  farther 
and  try  trolling."       iif. 

«  All  right,"  responded  David.    "  Where  shall  we 

go?" 

"0,  we'll  go  down  along  'The  Rocks.*  Elijah 
Spicer  told  me  he  made  a  great  catch  there  the  other 

day." 

David  made  no  objection,  though  with  his  eyes  he 
questioned  his  brother.  "The  Rocks,"  or  "Smug- 
glers' Rocks"  as  they  were  called,  were  well  known 
by  both  the  boys,  and  some  strange  stories  were  told 
of  the  deeds  which  had  been  done  there  within  the 
past  few  months. 

"0,  you  needn't  be  afraid,"  said  Andrew.     "I 


i«^ 


iciglibors, 
was  hard, 
.  David's 
eea  which 
rlash  and 
hat  made 
y  was  the 

The  bass 

grounds ; 

:  the  fish 

trought  no 

[ish  here," 
re  farther 

e  shall  we 

s.*  Elijah 
3  the  other 

lis  eyes  he 
)r  "Smug- 
ell  known 
3  were  told 
within  the 

idrew.     "I 


1 


" PRESSED " 


11 


don't  half  believe  these  stories  about  the  smugglers; 
and  even  if  they  are  true,  the  men  wont  touch  us." 

"Well,"  said  David,  "you  know  we  promised 
mother  we  would  be  home  in  time  to  help  father 
with  the  milking.  We  shall  liave  to  get  home 
before  dark." 

"  We  '11  get  home  long  before  dark,"  said  Andrew, 
"  But  I  want  to  take  home  as  many  bass  as  the  Spicer 
boys  had ;  they  did  bring  in  some  beauties  the  other 
day.     We  can  get  them  if  they  can." 

David  caught  a  little  of  his  brother's  eagerness, 
and  his  scruples  and  fears  were  soon  forgotten. 
They  pulled  in  their  lines  and  then  decided  to  eat 
their  luncheon  before  they  started,  and  so  left  the 
anchor  as  it  was.  The  morning's  sport  had  kindled 
their  appetites,  and  the  brown  bread  and  dough- 
nuts, which  made  up  their  lunch,  began  rapidly  to 
disappear. 

"Andrew,"  said  David,  "what  was  that  'Embargo 
Act'  I  heard  you  and  father  talking  about  last  night  ? 
I  have  heard  of  it  a  good  many  times,  but  I  never 
knew  just  what  it  was." 

"Why,  don't  you  know?"  said  Andrew.  "You 
must  have  heard  about  all  this  trouble  we  are  having 
"  ith  England  and  France.  You  know  how  England 
has  been  taking  our  men  and  claiming  they  belonged 
to  them ;  tbes  have  seized  a  lot  of  our  sailors  and 
made  them  serve  on  the  British  ships." 


'■ 


-y 


1 1 


12 


THE  SKARCII  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"  Yc8,  I  know  about  that,"  said  David;  "they  call 
that 'pressing.'  But  what  is  this  Embargo?  That 
can't  have  anything  to  do  with  the  men." 

"No,"  replied  Andrew.  "But  the  British  have 
almost  ruined  our  commerce;  they  made  us  pay  a 
tax  when  our  vessels  even  stopped  at  their  ports. 
Things  became  so  bad  that  Congress  wouldn't  let 
any  of  our  ships  leave  for  a  foreign  port  at  all." 

"  I  should  n't  think  that  would  have  hurt  England 
any,"  said  David. 

"It  didn't,"  replied  his  brother.  "England  was 
glad  of  it ;  it  gave  her  the  chance  to  do  all  the  trad- 
ing herself.  Besides,  she  didn't  stop  taking  our 
men  either." 

,   "  But  1  heard  you  say  last  night  it  was  not  in  force 
now." 

"It  isn't.     Congress  passed   an   act  which  they 
called  the  Non  intercourse  Act  after  that." 
"  What  was  that  ? " 

"0,  that  allowed  trade  with  other  nations,  but 
stopped  it  with  Great  Britain  and  France.  But  that 
has  come  to  an  end  now." 

"  Does  England  still  press  our  men  then  ?  "  asked 
David. 

"0  yes,  worse  than  ever.  Don't  you  remember 
how  Ethan  Greene,  who  was  at  our  house  last  winter 
and  who  used  to  be  a  sailor  in  the  Chesapeake, 
told  how  the  Leopard  stopped  them  off  Chesapeake 


■■i^. 


'  they  call 
TO?    That 

itish  have 
us  pay  a 

eir  ports. 

uldn't  let 
at  all." 

t  England 

igland  was 
1  the  trad- 
taking  our 

lot  in  force 

yhich  they 
t." 

ations,  but 
But  that 

;n  ?  "  asked 

I  remember 
last  winter 
:!hesapeake, 
Chesapeake 


" PRESSED ' 


13 


Bay  and  took  four  sailors  off  the  Chesapeake  with 
her?  Well,  that's  what's  going  on  now;  only  its 
worse  if  anything,  for  the  Englishmen  don't  always 
stop  to  wait  for  ships.  Sometimes  they  take  men 
who  are  not  sailors." 

"  What  do  they  let  them  do  it  for  ? "  said  David 
angrily.  "I  wouldn't  if  I  commanded  a  frigate 
like  the  Chesapeake." 

"0,  well,  father  says,"  replied  Andrew,  "that  Eng- 
land has  the  strongest  navy  in  the  world.  Most  of 
our  men  are  only  farmers.  What  could  we  do  if  we 
did  try  to  stop  it  ?    They  'd  soon  stop  us. " 

"I'd  try  to  stop  it  any  way,"  was  David's  an- 
swer, as,  having  finished  his  lunch,  ho  turned  to 
pull  in  the  anchor. 

"I'll  row  first,"  said  Andrew,  "and  you  can 
troll  going  over.  You  can  row  coming  back  if  you 
want  to." 

Soon  the  little  skiff  was  headed  for  "The  Rocks." 
David  was  silent  as  he  held  the  trolling  line,  evi- 
dently thinking  seriously  of  what  his  brother  hwl 
just  told  him.  But  a  tug  just  then  came  at  his  line 
that  drove  all  thoughts  of  the  Embargo  Act  and  the 
"press-gang"  out  of  his  mind. 

"I've  got  a  strike,"  he  called  excitedly  to  his 
brother.     "  It 's  a  good  one,  too. " 

Andrew  dropped  his  oars  and  waited  for  his 
brother. 


14 


THE  SEAKCII  FOR  ANDKEW   FIELD 


"Don't  pull  in  too  fast.     Let  him  have  some  of  . 
the  line,"  he  said,  cautioning  hia  imimlsivc  younger 
brother. 

But  the  baas  was  in  earnest;  he  was  fighting  for 
his  life.  The  line  sent  the  water  into  their  faces 
as  the  fish  darted  away.  Again  and  again  David 
brouf.'ht  him  nearer  the  boat,  but  each  time  the  bass 
was  away  again.  Andrew  smiled  as  he  watched  his 
excited  brother.  He  would  have  offered  to  help,  but 
he  knew  that  David  wanted  to  get  the  fish,  and  get 
him  alone.  But  the  struggles  of  the  frantic  fish 
became  feebler;  there  was  less  and  less  resistance, 
and  finally,  with  one  strong,  sudden  pull,  the  fish 
was  brought  out  of  the  water  and  safely  secured  in 

the  boat. 

"Isn't  he  a  beauty?"  said  the  excited  boy. 
"He'll  weigh  more  than  any  Elijah  Spicer  had;  I 
know  he  will.  He  'U  weigh  five  pounds,  won't  he, 
Andrew  ? " 

"  1  should  think  he  would,"  said  Andrew.  "  He 's 
a  good  one,  anyway." 

But  they  had  found  the  proper  grounds.  The  fish 
were  hungry  and  the  boys  were  busy.  The  hours 
passed  on,  but  they  forgot  to  think  of  time;  they 
were  thinking  only  of  the  large   catch  they  would 

take  home. 

"We  '11  send  over  for  the  Spiccis  to  come  and  see 
some  fish  when  we  get  home,"  said  David.     "Guess 


B  some  of 
3  younger 

jilting  for 
leir  faces 
lin  David 
e  the  bass 
itched  his 
» help,  but 
1,  and  get 
antic  fish 
'csi  stance, 
I,  the  fish 
jccurcd  in 

2ited   boy. 

3er  had ;  I 

won't  he, 

V.     "  He 's 

The  fish 
The  hours 
time;  they 
they  would 

me  and  see 
I.     "  Guess 


r 


"ONI.V    a    l.ini.K    UlSTANCli    I'KOM    TIlliM    WAS    A    Mill'."       l'aj;c   I5. 


" PRESSED " 


16 


wc  '11  have  to  send  over  to  tlioui  one  of  these  big 

fellows." 

Davi<l  raised  his  eyes  to  look  at  his  brother,  and 
then  uttered  a  sharp  exelaniation. 

"What's  that?"  said  he,  pointing  out  toward  the 
lake.  Only  a  little  distance  from  them  was  a  ship. 
So  busily  had  the  boys  worked  that  all  unnoticed 
had  the  ship  coino  up,  and  now  was  almost  within 
hailing  distance.  Andrew  turned  quickly  to  see 
what  it  was  his  l)rother  had  just  pointed  out;  the 
ship  was  there,  and  evidently  was  going  to  anchor. 
They  could  hear  the  rattle  as  the  sails  were  lowered, 
and  the  voices  of  the  men  could  be  heard  distinctly 
across  the  water. 

"  What  is  it,  Andrew  ?  "  said  David,  in  a  voice 
supiircssed  with  excitement. 

"1  don't  know.  It  looks  like  a  ship,"  said 
Andrew,  smiling.      "A  ship  has  three  masts,  has 

n't  it?" 

David  did  not  laugh;  ho  was  troubled  and  afraid. 

"Let's  get  out  of  this  anyway." 

"There's  no  use  in  running  away,"  replied 
Andrew ;  "  if  they  want  us  they  could  soon  catch  us 
anyway.  The  best  thing  for  us  to  do  is  to  go  on 
with  our  fishing.  If  wc  mind  our  business,  I  guess 
they  will  theirs." 

But  Andrew  was  not  as  calm  as  his  words  were. 
The  boys  were  silent  and  watched  a  yawl  as  it  was 


n 


J 


16 


•niK  SKARCIl   FOR  ANDUKW   FIKLl) 


6»      ! 


lowered  from  the  ship's  si.lc.     They  saw  eight  men 
descend  and  talie  their  phices,   six  of  them  at  the 

ours. 

"  Do  you  think  they  are  smugglers  ?  "  aslied  David, 

earnestly. 

"I  shouUl  n't  wonder  if  they  were,"  was  Andrew's 
reply.  "  Hut  at  any  rate  the  hest  thing  we  can  do 
is  to  go  on  with  our  lisliing  and  not  mind  them." 

Andrew  and  David  l)oth  l<ncw  it  was  long  since 
the  time  when  they  should  have  started  for  home; 
but  they  were  now  afraid  that,  if  they  started,  the 
men  in  the  yawl  would  think  they  were  running 
away,  and  then  would  follow  them  anyway.  And 
what  chance  would  they  hove  in  their  little  Hat- 
bottomed    skilT,   against    six    trained    men  in    the 

yt^wi  ?  ... 

David  felt  a  jerk  at  his  line;  but  he  had  no  incli- 
nation now  to  pull  it  in,  even  to  see  what  he  had. 

"You'd  better  pull  in  your  line,"  said  Andrew, 
as  he  began  to  row  again.  "They  '11  know  we  arc 
fishing,  and  I  don't  think  they  '11  trouble  us." 

But  the  boat  from  the  ship  was  nearly  ashore 
now;  they  had  gone  two  hundred  yards  from  the 
boys'  skiff,  and  had  not  even  hailed  them.  They 
saw  them  row  in  near  the  shore,  and  one  man  spring 
lightly  ashore  and  disappear  among  the  trees  that 
lined  the  bunk.  The  yawl  then  put  about,  and 
started  back,  as  if  for  the  ship. 


Ik. 


IKLl) 

law  eight  men 
■  tlicm  at  the 

asked  David, 

was  Andrew's 
ing  we  can  do 
ind  them." 
vas  h)ng  sinco 
'ted  i'or  home; 
By  started,  the 
were  rtinning 
anyway.  And 
cir   little   flat- 

I  mcu  in    the 

c  had  no  incU- 
•hat  he  had. 
'  said  Andrew, 

II  know  we  are 
ihlens." 

I  nearly  ashore 
irards  from  the 
■d  them.  They 
one  man  spring 
the  trees  that 
put  about,   and 


"rUKtJSKD" 


17 


"Andrew,  they're  coming'  here,"  and  David,  in 
a  low  tone,   greatly  excited.  ^       ^^ 

"Perhaps  they  want  to  get  some  of  our  llsh,"  said 
Andrew.  "We  won't  charge  them  much,  will  we, 
David  ? "  said  ho  with  a  smile,  which  only  partly 
concealed  his  real  anxiety. 

Meanwhile  the  yawl  came  on;  it  was  evidently 
coming  where  the  boys  were.  Bnt  there  was  nothing 
for  them  to  do  but  to  wait.  As  the  boat  came  along- 
side the  skiff,  the  men  rested  upon  their  oars,  and 
the  boatswain  began  the  conversation.  Evidently  he 
was  suspicious  of  the  presence  of  the  boys  there, 
and  at  that  time. 

"What    are    you    doing    here?"     was  his    hrst 

question.  „ 

"  Fishing,"  answered  Andrew.     " Can't  you  see  ? 
and  he  hcfd  up  to  view  one  of  the  largest  bass  they 

had  taken. 

"Sure  you  ain't  out  here  to  see  what  men  come 
ashore?"  asked  the  boatswain. 

"Wo    only  saw   one    man    go    ashore."    replied 

Andrew. 

There  was  a  conversation   low  and  earnest  tor  a 

moment  in  the  yawl. 

"  Where  do  you  live  ? "  was  the  next  question  put 

to  the  boys.  '         .     . 

"0,  round  the  point  there,"  said  Andrew,  pointing 

towards  Sackett's  Harbor. 


18 


THE  SEAHCII  FOR  ANUUKW   FIKLD 


«  Well,  you  have  n't  much  of  a  Yankee  drawl  about 
you,"  said  tho  boatswain.  "I  believe  you  arc  an 
Englislnnan.  You  ought  to  be  on  board  ship  in  such 
linrcs  as  these.  We  're  going  to  have  trouble,  and 
that  soon." 

David  saw  his  brother  become  pale,  but  his  voice 
was  firm  as  he  told  the  boatswain  that  he  had  lived 
for  ten  years  on  this  shore  and  was  born  in  New 

England. 

"Well,  'New'  England  or  'Old,'  we  want  you,  and 
you'll  have  to  come  aboard,"  said  the  boatswain. 

Another  earnest  and  low  conversation  took  place 
on  board  the  yawl.  Andrew's  face  had  burned  dur- 
ing the  day  upon  the  water,  but  the  redness  could 
not  hide  the  pallor  that  crept  over  his  cheeks. 

Finally  the  boatswain  spoke  again :  — 

"We  don't  want  the  little  fellow,  but  vre  have 
need  of  you.     So  just  come  aboard,  will  ye,  and  be 

quick  about  it." 

What  could  Andrew  do  ?  Here  were  seven  men,  all 
strong  and  armed,  and  he  had  not  even  the  old  flint 
lock  he  thought  of  bringing  in  the  morning.  To 
fight  was  hopeless;  he  must  obey.  A  hurried  mes- 
sage to  David  for  his  father  and  mother,  and  then 
Andrew  stepped  on  board  the  British  boat. 

David  was  left  alone.  He  sat  for  a  moment 
stunned.  There  were  tears  in  his  eyes,  but  they 
could  not  hide  the  sight  of  his  brother  as  he  sat 


"  PRESSED  " 


19 


•awl  about 
on  arc  an 
lip  in  suoli 
ouble,  and 

t  his  voice 

had  lived 

rn  in  New 

it  you,  and 
oatswain. 
took  place 
urned  dur- 
Incss  could 
cheeks. 

it  :ye  have 
ye,  and  be 


beside  the  boatswain  in  the  yawl  that  was  now  near 
the  ship.  A  little  wave  of  the  hand  was  all  that 
came  to  David.  Ho  saw  the  men  appear  on  deck 
and  Andrew  led  below. 

He    must    go    back.      Almost   powerless,    David 
picked  up  his  oars  and  began  to  row  for  home. 


en  men,  all 
he  old  flint 
>rning.  To 
urried  mes- 
•,  and  then 
oat. 

a  moment 
8,  but  they 
:  as  he  sat 


20 


THE  SEAUCU  FOU  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  II 


THE  NEWS   AT   HOME 


THE  bitterness  in  David's  heart  lent  strength  to 
his  arms;  he  was  bitter  against  his  country. 
If  she  had  strength  enough  to  make  herself  indepen- 
dent of  England,  why  had  she  not  strength  enough  to 
protect  her   men  after  the  country  was   freed   from 
British  rule  ?    Why  should  he  have  been  left  to  carry 
the  sad  news  home  ?    And  yet,  in  spite  of  the  hard- 
ness in  his  heart,  David  rested  for  a  minute  upon  his 
oars.     He  now  noticed,  as  he  looked  toward  the  ship 
riding  at  anchor  so  near  him,  that  she  was  a  man  of 
war.     He  could  sec  the  portholes  and  the  muzzles 
of  the  guns.     He  could  not  help  admiring  her  beauty 
as  she  rested  so  gracefully  upon  the  water.     Wliat 
was  her  name  ?     And  David  eagerly  looked  to  see, 
for  he  knew  he  should  have  need  of  that     He  saw 
on  the  long  streamer  the  word  "Osprey,"  and  he 
recalled  then  how  often  he  had  heard  of  this  ship, 
the  terror  of  the  lake. 

Even  while  David  was  looking,  he  saw  the  yawl 
start    forth  again   from    the    ship.     What  was    it 


,D 


THE  NEWS  AT  HOME 


21 


strength  to 
lis  country. 
;lf  indcpcn- 
h  enough  to 
freed   from 
left  to  carry 
)f  the  hard- 
ute  upon  his 
ard  the  ship 
ras  a  man  of 
the  muzzles 
g  her  beauty 
iter.     Wliat 
aked  to  see, 
at.     He  saw 
;y,"  and   he 
)f  this  ship, 

aw  the  yawl 
i^hat  was    it 


coming  for  ?    Had  the  sailors  repented  of  their  woik, 

and  were  they  going  to  bring  back  his  brother  ?     IJis 

lieart  gave  a  bound  as  the  thought  came  to  him,  but 

in  a  moment  be  saw  bow  vain  was  that  idea,  for  the 

yawl  was  pulled  rapidly  toward  the  same  spot  on  the 

shore  where  he  had  seen  the  man   landed   only  a 

little  tijne  before.     He  saw  the  man  come  out  of  the 

woods  and  step  quickly  on  board,  and  the  boat  start 

back  for  the  ship.       And  even  while  he  was  looking 

he  saw  a  little  puff  of  smoke  rise  from  the  stern  of 

the  yawl,  and  he  heard  the  whistling  of  a  bullet  as  it 

l)a88ed   over  his  head.     Inexperienced  as  he  was, 

David  did  not  think  these  men  would  shoot  him,  but 

the  hint  which  was  given  for  him  to  move  on,  he 

was  not  slow  in  accepting. 

Bending  sturdily  to  his  oars,  David  rowed  toward 
home.  Yet,  busy  as  he  was,  he  could  see  the  ship 
weigh  anchor  and  the  wind  fill  out  the  sails.  Her 
course  seemed  to  be  in  a  direction  opposite  to  that 
which  he  was  taking,  and  soon  the  curve  in  the 
shore  hid  her  from  David's  eyes. 

Darkness  had  come  before  he  arrived  at  the  place 
where  Andrew  and  he  kept  their  skiff.  Tired 
as  he  was,  he  leaped  quickly  on  shore,  and,  leaving 
behind  him  the  fish  which  he  had  caught  that  day, 
he  started  on  the  run  for  his  father's  house.  It  was 
only  two  miles  from  the  shore  of  the  lake,  and  yet 
to  him  the  distance  had  never  seemed  so  great.     But 


,/^ 


.uumuMiiw 


^■»...a»^.>^,^,.,..^^./,^g,^-j^,^:j)gg:.^-,j-,--'-« 


>.^Tl.S!„i,V,^;a^.iF.'   ..   :^a-;-^y^^.|;.-j.-i  ,gj||g(,^| 


-'— fff'vi^*'''- 


22 


THE   SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


at  last,  out  of  the  darkness  lie  could  see  the  oiitlincs 
of  liis  lioiiie.  How  could  lie  tell  his  father  and 
mother?  And  yet  they  must  know;  and  he  must  be 
the  one  to  tell  them. 

David  entered  the  yard,  and  Rex,  his  shepherd 
dog,  heard  and  recognized  his  footstep.  lie  had 
only  a  word  f(n-  the  dog,  which  leaped  ui)on  him  in 
the  warmth  of  his  affection.  He  had  other  work  to 
do,  and  David,  though  he  was  only  sixteen  years  of 
age,  was  not  the  boy  to  draw  back  from  a  task, 
merely  because  it  was  diflicult. 

But  there  were  many  lights  in  the  house.  What 
was  the  meaning  of  that?  Had  they  heard  the 
news  ?  But  at  once  he  knew  how  impossible  that 
was.  He  stopped  a  moment,  and  even  as  he  stopped 
the  words  of  a  hymn  came  to  him  from  the  house, 
which  he  recognized  as  a  favorite  one  wdth  his 
mother. 


"  On  the  other  side  of  Jordan,  in  the  sweet  fields  of  Eden, 
"Where  the  tree  of  life  is  blooming,  there  is  rest  for  you." 


David  felt  a  lump  in  his  throat  as  he  thought  of  his 
mother,  and  then  he  remembered  that  religious  ser- 
vices had  been  appointed  to  be  held  that  night  in 
his  father's  house.  David  had  never  been  specially 
interested  in  these  meetings,  which  a  travelling 
preacher  held  there   from  time   to  time;   but  his 


■*r' 


.^iiii.i.miiriiii'iiiiriiiiiiit. 


THE  NEWS  AT  HOME 


23 


ic  oiitrmcs 
iitlicr  and 
le  must  bo 

sliejilicrd 
lie  had 
ton  him  iu 
cr  work  to 
u  years  of 
m  a  task, 

se.  What 
heard  the 
isible  that 
he  stopped 
the  house, 
with  his 


I  of  Eden, 
t  for  you." 

ight  of  his 
ligious  ser- 
it  night  in 
n  specially 
travelling 
>;    but   his 


parents  were  devout  people,  and  had  l)rought 
witli  them  the  memories  of  their  New  England 
church. 

In  a  moment,  however,  David  was  glad  these  peo- 
ple were  there ;  ho  thought  of  a  word  his  mother 
often  quoted  to  him,  "that  in  a  multitude  of  coun- 
sellors there  was  safety." 

David  stepped  inside  the  kitchen  door;  it  was 
just  as  the  hymn  closed,  and  his  father  came  out  to 
meet  him.  There  was  a  sternness  in  his  father's 
look  as  he  started  to  speak  to  him,  but  something  in 
David's  manner  checked  hira  and  the  reproof  was 
not  given. 

"  Where  is  your  brother  Andrew  ? "  asked  his 
father. 

And  David,  all  tired  and  heartsick,  broke  down 
and  cried.  All  the  word  that  he  could  utter  was, 
"Pressed." 

"  '  Pressed  ' !  what  do  you  mean  ?  " 

And  then  David  told  the  story.  The  day's  fish- 
ing, the  trolling  by  the  rocks,  and  the  seizure  of  his 
brother,  all  were  strangely  mixed  and  told,  but  at 
last  his  father  knew  it  all.  David  started  back  as 
ho  saw  how  pale  his  father  was  and  how  near  to 
falling,  and  his  heart  smote  him,  for  his  mother  had 
often  told  him  of  late  of  his  father's  illness  and  her 
fears  for  him.  In  a  moment,  however,  he  had 
recovered  his  courage,  and  taken  upon  himself  the 


1^' 


24 


TIIK  SEARCH    FOU   ANDREW  FIELD 


rcsponsiliility  of  informing  the  company  of  his 
adventure. 

"  I  '11  toll  mother.  You  stay  here,"  ho  said  to  his 
father;  and,  stepping  to  the  door,  he  looked  within 
and  saw  his  mother  sitting  near,  A  beckoning  with 
the  hand  brought  her  quickly  and  (luietly  to  him,  and 
then,  without  a  tremor,  he  told  his  mother  all  that 
his  father  had  just  heard.  There  was  no  time  for 
tears  now.  Whatever  was  to  be  done  must  be  done 
at  once. 

"Let  us  go  in  and  talk  it  over  with  our  friends," 
said  his  mother;  and  the  adventure  of  the  boys  was 
soon  known  by  all  who  were  present. 

The  moment  of  surprise  was  followed  by  an  out- 
burst of  anger. 

"Ood  only  knows  what  will  be  the  end  of  all 
this,"  said  the  old  preacher.  "It's  not  the  first 
time  they  have  done  this  thing,  and  I  'm  afraid  its 
not  the  last.  If  I  were  ten  years  younger  I'd 
shoulder  a  gun  and  help  to  drive  these  sinners  from 
our  shore.  Even  the  Good  Book  says,  'Be  ye  angry, 
and  sin  not. '  " 

"  But  it  is  n't  anger,  it 's  what  we  can  do  we  must 
think  of  now,"  said  David's  mother. 

"  Wo  can't  pursue  them ;  and  even  if  we  could  we 
should  be  driven  back,"  said  his  father,  with  a  groan. 

David  saw  Elijah  Spicer  over  in  the  corner  of  the 
room  looking  at  him  with  sympathetic  eyes.     David 


-s  ■■.-.. 


lii'iiiii'-  iT^'MltettaiO^ 


THE  NEWS  AT  HOME 


26 


\y   of    his 

laid  to  his 
icd  within 
ming  with 
)  him, and 
cr  all  that 
)  time  for 
st  be  done 

•  friends," 
E5  boys  was 

by  an  out- 

snd  of  all 
t  the  first 
afraid  its 
ungcr  I 'd 
mcrs  from 
!  ye  angry, 

lo  we  must 

B  could  we 
th  a  groan, 
rner  of  the 
cs.     David 


had  no  thought  of  telling  Elijah  how  many  bass  he 
had  caught  that  day;  but  Elijah  whispered  to 
him,  "I  was  at  the  garrison  to-day,  and  sold  some 
fish    to  Colonel    Bettingcr.     He    aeked    me    about 

you." 

"Colonel  Bettinger!"  David  knew  him  well;  ho 
had  been  often  at  his  father's  house.  Colonel 
Bettinger  was  the  very  one  to  help  them  now.  And 
so  he  quickly  went  to  the  place  where  his  mother 
was  sitting  and  whispered  something  in  her  ear,  for 
the  boys  were  not  allowed  to  speak  much  in  those 
days  in  the  presence  of  their  elders. 

"The  very  thing!"  exclaimed  his  mother.  And 
then  aloud  she  said,  "David  tliinks  it  would  be  well 
to  go  and  see  Colonel  Bettinger." 

"And  so  it  would,  and  at  once,"  said  the  old 
preacher.  "He  knows  these  men  and  their  ways." 
David  could  not  prevail  upon  his  father  to  remain 
at  home,  and  so  together,  upon  horseback,  they 
started  at  once  through  the  darkness  for  Sackett's 
Harbor.  It  was  only  a  short  ride,  and  in  less  than 
an  hour  they  were  in  the  Colonel's  quarters  and  had 
told  him  all  the  story. 

The  Colonel  shook  his  head.  "  It 's  a  sad  piece  of 
work.  The  end  is  coming  soon,  for  we  sha'n't  stand 
this  much  longer.  We  are  bound  to  have  another 
war  with  England,  and  this  thing  will  be  settled. 
But  that  doesn't  give  you  back  your  boy,"  said  he. 


20 


TIIK  SEAllCII  FOR  ANDHKVV   FIKLI) 


"What  did  you  siiy  the  name  of  the  ship  was?  "  he 
in(|uired  of  David. 

"Tiie  Osprt'v,"  replied  David.  "And  I'm  sure 
its  a  luan  of  war." 

"Yes,  I  know,"  said  the  Colonel  smiling;  "hut 
that  doesn't  help  it  any.  1  know  some  of  the 
Osprey's  men.  I  've  met  the  Captain  a  number  of 
times.  But  he  would  either  deny  all  this,  or  not 
give  up  your  son,"  said  he,  turning  to  Mr.  Field, 
"even  if  he  knew;  for  they  know  the  war  is  eoming, 
and  they  are  getting  ready  for  it,  which  is  more 
than  we  arc  doing.  I  don't  know  why  Congress 
can't  see  what  is  before  us,  and  that  it  must  be 
met." 

"Have  you  any  idea  as  to  where  the  Osprey  was 
bound  ?  "  said  he  after  a  minute's  silence,  turning 
again  to  David. 

"No,  only  she  seemed  to  be  going  from  mo." 

"I  have  heard  she  was  eoming  down  the  lake,  and 
I  do  not  think  she  was  going  back  to  Oswego.  It 
must  be  there  was  some  snniggling  going  on." 

"I'm  sure  there  was,"  said  David,  "for  they 
landed  a  nuui  right  there  by  Smugglers'  Roeks,  and 
in  a  little  while  came  for  him  again.  There  was 
something  wrong,  and  I  'm  sure  its  snuiggling." 

"It's  more  than  likely,''  responded  the  Colonel. 
"And  if  that's  so  they  must  have  headed  for  King- 
ston.     I   think  your   best   plan   will    be   to  go   to 


LI) 

p  was  ';:'  "  ho 

d  1  'm  sure 

iling;  "hut 
lino  of  tlic 
I  iiumher  of 
this,  or  not 
Mr.  FieUl, 
•  is  coining, 
ch  is  more 
\y  Congress 
it  must  he 

Osprcy  was 
ice,  turning 

imc." 
ic  lake,  and 
Oswego.     It 
ig  on." 

" for   they 
Rocks,  and 

There  was 
gling." 
lie  Colonel, 
d  for  King- 
B   to  go   to 


THE  NEWS  AT   IKIME 


27 


KinL'ston  and  see  what  yon  can  do.  I  will  give  you 
n  letter  to  the  eoininnnder  of  tht;  Osprey,  and  if  he  is 
the  niiin  1  think  he  is,  he  may  give  you  l»aek  your 
hoy.  There  'rt  a  party  going  to  start  from  here  in 
the  morning  for  Kingston,  and  I  'm  sure  you  could 
get  carried  over  there  with  them." 

Not  strong  in  hope,  and  yet  not  knowing  of  any- 
thing hetter,  the  little  i)arty  withdrew  from  the 
Colonel's  quarters  and  went  down  the  village  street 
to  make  arrangements  for  their  passage  to  Kingston. 
This  was  very  easily  done  after  their  story  had  hecn 
told,  and  then  David  and  his  father  started  for 
home. 

It  was  only  then  that  David  hegan  to  realize  how 
tired  he  was.  But  he  knew  how  much  depended 
upon  him,  and  how  little  hia  father  could  do,  so 
hravely  he  hent  to  his  task. 

Some  of  the  friends  were  still  at  his  home  when 
David  returned,  and  when  the  visit  to  Colonel  Bet- 
tinger  had  been  related,  and  the  approval  of  all  had 
hecn  given  to  their  proposed  journey  to  Kingston, 
David  took  his  tallow  candle  and  went  up  the  ladder 
to  his  room  in  the  attic. 

He  could  hear  the  low  and  earnest  tones  of  his 
father  and  mother  as  they  talked,  while  his  mother 
prepared  the  lunch  for  their  journey.  But  silence 
soon  came  over  all,  and  David,  after  tossing  in  his 
bed  and  thinking  of    the  stirring   scenes    of   the 


t 
¥■ 


■^■. 


ikaai^ 


as 


THE  SKARCII   FOR  AN'DHKW  FIKLI) 


morrow,  nml  wondering  wlioro  and  how  Andrew 
then  was,  nt  last  fell  into  a  dcpp  sloop,  from  which 
ho  was  only  aroused  hy  the  voice  of  Iiis  mother 
calling  him  in  the  morning. 

"Come,  David,  its  time  you  and  your  father  were 
off." 


:% 


-<<Miiiiii»LwlHw^a— faa 


I) 


A  TUU'  TO   KINGSTON 


*v  Andrew 
i(tin  which 
liH   iiiothi'i* 

uthor  wci'o 


CHAPTER  III 

A   TRIP   TO    KINGSTON 

''T^flK  three  men  who  were  to  bo  the  companions 
A  of  David  and  his  father  were  waiting  when 
they  arrived  at  the  shore. 

"This  is  a  spanlting  breeze,  and  we  intist  be  off  at 
once,"  said  the  one  who  was  to  act  as  skipper.  And 
in  a  short  time  the  little  sailboat  was  rapidly  skim- 
ming the  wator.  The  men  looked  compassionately 
at  David  and  his  father,  for  they  knew  the  story,  and 
i.)  preciated  their  disinclination  to  talk,  and  after 
a  few  questions,  and  some  hopeful  words,  confined 
their  conversation  to  themselves.  They  were  going 
over  to  Kingston  to  see  about  some  cattle.  Their 
conversation  had  little  of  interest  for  David  and  his 
father,  and  they  were  soon  left  to  themselves. 

The  long  day  passed  on.  The  wind  was  fresh,  and 
the  boat  flew  like  a  bird  over  the  water.  They 
swept  round  Pillar  Point,  and  David  recalled  the 
day,  a  year  before,  when  he  and  his  brother  had 
fished  along  the  shore,  and  had  carried  home  a  beat- 
load  of  fish  and  pond  lilies,  and  some  of  the  lilies 
he  could  see  now,  growing  in  the  same  place. 


I . 


1: 


^ 


i^' 


30 


TIIK  SEARCH   F(»U   ANDREW   FIELD 


"Wo  shall  make  KiiiK'ston  by  four  o'l-lock,"  said 
the  skippor.  "It  isn't  ul'teii  wo  can  get  a  l.rcczc 
like  this." 

"TIh-  sooner  tlu-  better,"  said  Pavid. 
"Well,  what  arc  you  K'<Miig  to  do  when  you  get 
over  there?"  asked  the  skipper. 

David  turned  to  his  father  for  a  reply.  He  had 
not  any  clear  idea  in  his  own  mind. 

"1  have  a  letter  from  Colonel  JJettinger  to  the 
couunander  of  the  Fort,  and  one  to  the  captain  of 
the  Osprey.  We  hope  she  will  put  in  there,  and 
perhaps  we  can  bring  Andrew  back  with  us." 

The  men  said  nothing,  but  the  look  they  gave  one 
another  showed  how  hopeless  they  considered  the 
task  to  be. 

But  the  Canadian  shore  was  now  clearly  to  be 
seen.  The  walls  of  the  fort  and  the  stone  houses  of 
the  town  began  to  rise  out  of  the  water. 

The  little  boat  was  run  in  alongside  the  dock,  and 
in  a  few  minutes  David  and  his  father  were  on  their 
way  ui»  the  hill  toward  the  fort. 

"  We  're  going  back  in  the  morning,  and  if  ye 
want  to  go  ye  can,"  called  out  the  skipper. 

"We'll  see  you  again  anyway,"  said  David,  and 
he  turned  to  catch  up  with  his  father. 

"What  a  lot  of  ship-building  they  do  here,"  said 
David,  as  he  saw  along  the  shore  the  shipyards  that 
seemed  to  him  so  new  and  strange. 


"* ';'TBPffB^j|F^ff3n|y" 


r.n 


A  TRIP  TO   KINfiSTON 


81 


clock,"  said 
ijet  a  breeze 


icn  you  get 

ly.     lie  had 

ingcr  Id  the 
e  cajttain  of 
1  there,  and 
th  us." 
hey  gave  one 
iisidered   the 

learly  to  be 
)no  houses  of 

:hc  docl<,  and 
were  on  their 

g,   and  if  ye 

ippcr. 

d  David,  and 

o  here,"  said 
hipyards  that 


«Yc9,  Kincaton  is  a  groat  place  for  ships.  The 
Osprcy  was  built  licrc,  an.l  I'm  alraid  there'll  bo 
a  lot  more  like  her  s(.on,"  said  his  father,  gloomily. 
"They  'vc  got  a  good  fort  here  anyway." 
"Yes,  Chjvcrnor  General  Frontenac  built  a  fort 
here  almost  a  hundred  and  fifty  years  ago.  Tliero 
is  n't  a  stronger  place  along  the  lake  or  the  St. 
Lawrence  than  Kiiig8t(m,  except  Quebec.  It's  a 
centre  now.     That  's  why  I  have  come  here." 

"Do  you  see,"  said  David,  "what  a  lot  of  soldiers 
they  have  hero  ?  "  as  he  pointed  to  long  lines  of  strag- 
gling redcoats,  who  were  on  their  way  to  the  fort. 
"  Yes.     They  're  going  up  to  dress  parade  now." 
"Shall  we  sec  it?"  said  David,  forgetting  fur  a 
moment  the  puri)08e  of  their  journey. 

"We  won't  stop  for  that  if  we  can  help  it,"  replied 
his  father;  and  David  felt  ashamed  as  h'  thought 
of  Andrew.     Whci^  was  he  now  ? 

"I  shouldn't  thi^k  they'd  need  so  many  men 
here,"  said  he. 

"They  don't.  It  is  no  good  omen  that  there  arc 
so  many  cither.  1  tell  you  these  Hritish  mean  fight, 
and  we  on  the  other  side  are  doing  nothing.  It'll 
be  a  hard  fight  when  it  comes,  and  they  'II  be  ready 
for  it,  and  we  won't." 

But  they  were  near  the  fort  now.  The  sentinel 
halted  them.  They  gave  the  letter  from  Colonel 
Bettinger  to  him,  and  he  gave  it  to  a  comrade  near. 


'  -'i.^^i9BHlS^' 


/• 


(r~^ 


\ 


t 


82 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 


"Here,  take  this  to  the  Colonel.  You  stay  here." 
sai<l  tlie  sentinel  to  David  and  his  father,  *'and  wait 
till  word  comes." 

In  a  few  minutes  they  received  word  that  they 
were  to  go  to  the  Colonel's  quarters,  and  passed 
within  the  grounds. 

David  had  never  seen  anything  like  the  solid 
masonry  of  the  fort,  and  his  eyes  were  open  to  every 
sight. 

But  in  a  few  minutes  they  were  ushered  into  the 
Colonel's  presence.  He  was  a  stout  man,  with  a 
red  face  and  a  pompous  manner.  His  attitude  boded 
no  good  for  his  visitors. 

"Well,  sir,  what  do  you  want  of  me?"  said  he. 

"I  thought  Colonel  Bettinger's  note  would  ex- 
plain," said  Mr.  Field.  "My  son  has  been  taken 
against  his  will  on  board  the  Osprey,  and  I  thought 
you  would  help  me  get  him  back." 

"I  know  nothing  about  it,  sir.  Probably  the 
Captain  knew  what  he  was  about.  We  want  men, 
and  when  we  find  one  that  belongs  to  us  we  don't 
cure  where  he  came  from.  You  were  born  in  Eng- 
land, I  presume  ?  " 

"No,  sir,"  said  Mr.  Field  indignantly.  "I  was 
born  in  Vermont.  My  father  was  born  in  England, 
but  r  belong  in  America." 

"  0,  well,  '  Once  a  Briton  always  a  Briton. '  We 
planted   the  Colonies  with   our  men;    they  really 


lELl) 

9U  stay  hero. " 
er,  "and  wait 

»rd  that  they 
I,   and  passed 

ike  the  solid 
open  to  every 

lered  into  the 

man,  with  a 

a^ttitude  boded 

le?"  said  he. 
»te  would  ex- 
s  been  taken 
ind  I  thought 

Probably  the 
Te  want  men, 
0  us  we  don't 
born  in  Eng- 

itly.  "I  was 
a  in  England, 

Briton.'  We 
;    they  really 


A  TRIP  TO  KINGSTON 


m 


belong  to  us  now.  And  when  we  find  a  good  man 
he  is  ours  still." 

"Then  you  '11  not  help  mc  get  back  my  boy,"  said 
Mr.  Field  olowly. 

"1  don't  know  your  boy;  besides,  the  Osprey 
isn't  here  and  won't  be  for  two  weeks  yet.  And  I 
think  Captain  Snaith  knows  his  work.  I  let  him 
run  the  Osprey,  and  I  run  Kingston.  Good  day, 
sir."  And  the  Colonel  turned  to  his  desk,  from 
which  he  had  not  risen,  and  began  to  write.  David 
and  his  father  withdrew,  and  hope  seemed  to  have 

gono. 

Once  outside  the  garrison  David  had  to  take  the 
lead.  His  father,  dazed  and  helpless,  seemed  ready 
to  give  up  all  hope. 

"  David,  what  can  we  do  ?  The  Colonel  won't  help 
us,  and  the  Osprey  won't  be  here  for  a  fortnight. 
Shall  we  go  home?" 

"We  '11  get  a  place  to  sleep  in  first.  Let 's  go  to 
the. tavern  where  the  men  are." 

A  few  inquiries  and  a  short  walk  brought  them 
to  a  little  place  called  a  tavern  by  courtesy.  Upon 
entering,  they  found  their  three  companions  talking 
earnestly  with  a  stranger;  he  was  evidently  a  sailor, 
and  wore  the  uniform  of  the  King's  navy. 

"We  've  been  holding  this  fellow  till  you  came," 
said  their  skipper.  "We  thought  you  might  like  to 
talk  with  him." 

3  '         "■ 


,  J 


'I 


u.a.ujWBmwww'iwo-n-^'H"'''!" 


»»«K 


w*^' 


84 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


«  Yc8  ? "  said  Mr.  Field.    "  Does  be  know  anything 
that'll  help  us?" 

"  Well,  he  ought  to.     He  's  from  the  Osprey. 

A  man  from  the  Osprey  1     David  was  all  atten- 

tion.  .    .     .  •        V 

"Yes,"  continued  the  skipper,  "he  's  just  m.     Ye 

sec,  his  time  was  up  yesterday,  and  he  thought  he 

wouldn't  wait  for  the  Osprey  to  come  to  Kingston. 

He  just  got  some  friends  to  sail  him  over." 

"  Do  you  know  anything  about  my  son  ?  "  said  Mr. 

Field  turning  to  the  stranger. 

"Yer  right,"  replied  the   sailor.      "If  he's  the 

younker  thai  come  aboard  the  Osprey  yesterday,  I 

know  som'at."  ,  „     t^.  ^A 

"Where  is  he  now?  "  eagerly  asked  Mr.  Field. 
,      "  Aboard  the  Osprey  I  guess,"  said  the  sailor  with 

a  laugh. 

"  Are  they  going  to  keep  him  ?  " 

"That's  .1,0  Cap'n's  plan.    He'salikely  ycunker, 
and  they  need  men."  .,  •  . 

"lie '11  get  off  and  run  away,"  said  David  inter-. 

rui)ting.  ^     .        •      ,  • 

"0  no,  I  guess  not.  The  Cap'n  gin  bun  a 
couple  o'  whacks  that '11. teach  him.  He  won't  go 
ashore  very  often  either."  ,    :,   », 

"Did  he  strike   him?     What  for?"  asked  Mr. 

Field.  ,  „    ,     .    , 

"0,  well,  ye  see,  his  sails  was  pretty  full  o  wind. 


.-r.»»»»*'n>,»Ji--i";i*M!«««*'" 


nything 

.1  atten- 

in.  Yc 
(Ught  he 
ingston. 

said  Mr. 

[\e  's  the 
crday,  I 

I'ield. 
ilor  with 


ycunker, 
vid  inter- 
in  him   a 

won't  go 

isked.  Mr, 
[1  o'  wind. 


*,; 


A  TRIP  TO  KINGSTON 


35 


Pie  had  a  lot  to  say  about  his  being  a  American 
citizen,  and  the  Cap'n  had  to  show  him  who  was 
boss.  But  he  gin  in,  all  quiet  like,  and  I  guess  he 
won't  be  troubled  any  more." 

"  Where  's  the  Osprey  bound  ?  "  said  Mr.  Field, 
quietly,  after  a  silence. 

"0,  I  don'  know.  They've  got  some  business 
along  shore  first.  By  and  by  they  're  comin'  here; 
but  not  just  yit." 

The  sailor  turned  to  go.  The  evening  was  far 
gone  now.  There  was  nothing  more  that  could  be 
done.  So  David  and  his  father  took  a  candle  and 
started  for  their  room. 

"  Guess  you  'd  better  go  long  home  with  us  in  tho 
mornin',"  called  out  the  skipper  kindlj'. 

"I  think  so  too,"  said  Mr.  Field,  and  he  turned 
wearily  away. 

The  early  morning  found  the  party  started  on 
their  homeward  journey.  Mr.  Field  was  hopeless, 
and  David'a  heart  sank  as  he  saw  how  pale  and  weak 
he  was.  What  a  return  it  would  be,  to  go  home  and 
add  to  his  mother's  sorrow  when  no  me.  'age  from 
Andrew  was  given,  and  his  father  sick  and  helpless! 
But  David  was  thinking.  Must  he  now  give  up 
and  leave  Andrew  to  get  away  from  the  Osprey  as 
best  he  could  ?  He  knew  Andrew  would  never  have 
left  him  in  that  way,  and  yet  what  could  he,  a  boy 
only  sixteen  years  old,  do  ?     But  he  would  do  some- 


/ 


^ 


36 


THE   SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


thing;  and  in  silence  he  was  working  over  the  prob- 
lem throughout  their  homeward  journey. 

The  wind  was  not  so  favorable  as  they  hud  had 
going  over;  the  calm  came.  David  took  his  turn 
at  the  oars  with  the  men,  but  his  father  was  down 
below  stretched  upon  a  rough  couch  made  for  him  of 
coats  and  blankets. 

It  was  late  at  night  when  they  arrived  at  Sackett's 
Harbor.  The  houses  loomed  up  in  the  darkness  as 
if  they  were  twice  their  natural  size.  How  should 
he  get  his  father  home  ?  David  already  felt  the 
responsibility  growing  upon  him. 

But  the  boat  had  hardly  been  made  fast  to  the 
dock  when  he  heard  a  voice  calling  to  him  that  he 
knew  right  well.  Quickly  he  sprang  ashore,  and  in 
a  moment  his  voice  could  be  heard  in  eager  conv.- 
sation  with  some  one  upon  the  dock.  His  father 
called,  but  David  did  not  hear.  And  when  he 
climbed  upon  the  dock,  and  looked  around  and  called 
again,  no  voice  replied,  and  David  had  disappeared. 


:ld 

tcr  the  prob- 

hcy  hud  had 
3ok  hia  turn 
cr  was  down 
lo  for  him  of 

at  Sackett's 

darkness  as 

How  should' 

ady  felt  the 

fast  to  the 
him  that  he 
shore,  and  in 
niger  conv.- 
His  father 
nd  when  he 
nd  and  called 
disappeared. 


DAVID  FOKMS   A  PLAN 


37 


CHAPTER  IV 

DAVID   FORMS   A   PLAN 

ELIJAH  SPICER  and  his  brother  Henry  were 
deeply  interested  in  the  visit  of  David  and  his 
father  to  Kingston.  The  boys  had  been  friends  for 
ten  years,  and  at  many  a  husking  bee  and  picnic 
they  had  been  leaders  together.  Over  on  Stony 
Island  they  had  often  been  camping,  and  now  there 
was  on  that  island  a  shanty  they  had  built,  and 
which  had  formed  for  them  a  shelter  many  a  night 
in  the  fall,  when  they  had  gone  fishing  and  gunning 
there. 

When  Elijah  had  returned  from  the  meeting  at 
David's  house,  and  had  excitedly  told  his  father  of 
the  seizure  of  Andrew,  the  family  had  talked  over 
the  affair  until  late  into  the  night.  And  when  they 
had  learned  of  David's  departure  for  Kingston,  they 
all  had  hoped  for  good  things. 

Mr.  Spicer,  however,  was  doubtful  of  any  good 
which  was  to  come  from  the  visit;  and  Elijah  had 
great  respect  for  his  father's  opinion. 

"Mark  my  words,"  said  Mr.  Spicer.  "No  good 
will  come  of  that  visit.     The  Britishers  won't  let  the 


■i 


I 


.",8 


TlIK  SKAUCH  FOU   ANDREW   FIELD 


boy  go,  and  besides  I  don't  believe  the  Osprey  has 
gone  to  Kingston.  She  has  too  much  to  do  aU»ng 
shore  yet." 

"Do  you  think  she   smuggles,    father?"    asked 

Elijah. 

"Think!  No,  I  don't  think,  I  know.  How  do 
you  suppose  some  neighbors  of  ours  have  so  much 
when  they  don't  work  half  as  hard  as  we  do  ?  " 

"Well,  but  when  do  you  think  David  and  his 
father  will  come  back  from  Kingston  ?  Do  you  think 
they  '11  stay  there  and  wait  ?  " 

"No;  Mr.  Field  is  a  sick  man.  I  'vc  been  afraid 
this  shock  would  be  too  much  for  him  anyway,"  said 
Mr.  Spicer. 

"  We  can  do  something  to  help  them,  can't  we  ?  " 
asked  Elijah. 

"  I  don't  know  as  there  's  much  you  can  do  to 
help,"  replied  his  father.  "If  they  come  back  late 
at  night,  you  and  Henry  might  be  there  at  the  dock 
with  the  horses.  That  'U  bring  them  home  easier  and 
earlier  if  they  should  come  back  in  the  night-time." 
It  was  in  accord  with  this  suggestion  that  Elijah 
had  acted,  and,  when  darkness  came  on,  and  he 
had  heard  from  David's  mother  that  the  party  had 
not  returned,  he  had  taken  his  horse  and  led  two 
others  to  Sackett's  Harbor.  He  had  been  waiting 
by  the  dock  for  some  time,  and,  although  he  always 
denied  that  he  had  fallen  asleep  there,  it  was  strange 


LI) 

Osprey  has 
to  do  along 

;r  ?  "    asked 

7.  Ilow  do 
ive  so  much 
do  ?  " 

sid  and  his 
)o  you  think 

been  afraid 
nyway,"  said 

can't  we  ? " 

u  can  do  to 
me  back  late 
3  at  the  dock 
ne  easier  and 
light-time," 
I  that  Elijah 

on,  and  he 
he  party  had 

and  led  two 
been  waiting 
gh  he  always 
t  was  strange 


DAVID  FORMS  A   TLAN 


39 


that  he  did  not  hear  the  boat  when  it  first  came  to 

the  dock. 

It  was  his  voice  David  had  heard,  and  to-rcther 
the  boys  had  started  on  the  run  for  the  tavern  sheds 
where  the  horses  were  tied. 

It  was  but  a  few  minutes  before  they  were  at  the 
dock  again  with  the  horses.  Mr.  Field,  now  that  he 
was  so  near  home,  thought  he  could  endure  the  ride, 
and  insisted  upon  going  to  his  own  house. 

Slowly  the  little  party  started  for  home.  Elijah 
and  David  were  on  either  side  of  Mr.  Field  to  be 
ready  in  case  any  accident  befell  him,  but  all  came 
safely  at  last  into  the  farm-yard  and  found  a  warm 
reception  within.  Disappointment  was  keenly  felt 
by  all  who  were  there,  but  no  strong  hopes  had  been 
cherished  of  success  at  Kingston. 

The  old  preacher  was  present  too,  and  as  he  lis- 
tened to  David's  story  of  his  reception  at  Kingston, 
and  as  he  told  of  the  number  of  redcoats  he  had  seen, 
he  shook  his  head  and  said  •. — 

«  The  war 's  coming ;  it  surely  is.  But  we  are  not 
getting  ready  for  it.  I  wish  I  could  tell  some  one  at 
Washington  of  these  last  few  days  on  the  lake.  If 
it 's  so  bad  here,  it 's  surely  worse  on  the  seas." 

When  David  that  night  crept  into  his  bed,  which 
he  shared  with  Elijah,  for  a  long  time  he  tossed  and 
rolled,  until  at  last  Elijah  called  out  to  him,  »  David, 
why  in  the  world  don't  you  go  to  sleep  ?  " 


■'r 


mm 


40 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDRKW   FIELD 


"I  can't.  I'm  thinking  of  Andrew.  I  wondo" 
what  he  's  doing  now.  1  'm  ghul  1  did  n't  tell  mother 
how  the  captain  ol  the  Osprey  knocked  him  down." 

"Well,  David,  what  are  you  going  to  do  about 
it?" 

"That 's  just  it,"  replied  David.  "Hero  's  father, 
he  's  sick,  and  1  don't  much  believe  he  's  going  to  be 
any  better,  at  least  very  soon;  and  all  the  time 
there  's  Andrew  probably  being  pounded  and  set  at 
all  sorts  of  dirty  work  by  the  08i)rey'8  men,  and  he 
a  wondering  why  we  don't  come  and  get  him." 

"  Why  don't  you  go,  then,  and  get  him  ? "  asked 
Elijah. 

"Do  you  think  I  could?"  said  David,  thought- 
fully.      "I  wish  1  could." 

"I'll  tell  you  what,"  said  Elijah.  "Leave  your 
father  here,  and  let  the  preacher  stay  here  too. 
He  '11  be  glad  to  help,  and  he  can  do  the  milking  and 
look  after  the  chores.  Then  Henry  and  you  and  1 
can  start  out  in  our  boat  and  cruise  along  shore,  and 
perhaps  we  can  do  something  to  help  Andrew.  If 
we  can't,  we  sha'n't  lose  much ;  and  they  won't  take 
us,  you  know.  They'd  a  taken  you  when  they 
pressed  Andrew  if  they  'd  wanted  boys." 

"1    believe    we    can    do    that,"    replied    David, 
thoughtfully.      "I   don't  know  whether  my   father 
would  let  me  go.    Do  you  think  yours  would  ?  " 
"Yes,  1  do,"  said   Elijah.     "We  haven't  done 


■WffiwasK^'S'* 


V 


DAVID  FORMS  A   I'l.AN 


4t 


I  woiuU"" 
'11  mntlior 
I  down." 

do   about 

!  's  father, 
oing  to  be 

the  time 
iiid  set  at 
liii,  and  he 
in." 

?"   asked 

,  thought- 

jcave  your 
here  too. 
ilking  and 
you  and  1 
shore,  and 
idrew.  If 
«ron't  take 
vhen   they 

3d    David, 
my   father 
Id?" 
en't  done 


much  hut  talk  about  what  we"  could  do  to  help  you 
since  this  thinj?  happened."  ,„  *  ii, 

MVoll,  1  think  it's  a  good  thing,  and  we  11  (a He 
with  the  folks  about  it  in  the  morning."  And  the 
boys  rolled  over  in  bed  and  were  soon  asleep. 

Early  in  the  morning  their  plan  was  laid  before 
their  parents.  Mr.  Field  was  worse  than  he  had 
been  the  night  before,  and  no  help  could  be  expected 
from  him;  but  David's  eagerness  seemed  to  inspire 

the  others.  ,  „ 

"How  shall  we  get  along  here  at  homo  u  you  go  . 

said  his  mother.     "There  '11  be  no  one  to  milk  and 

help  about  the  place." 

"1  didn't  know  but  Mr.  Dodd  might  be  willing  to 

stay  here  awhile." 

"Surely  I  will,"  said  the  preacher.     "I  favor  the 

^°«  fiitT've  lost  one  son,  and  1  don't  want  to  lose 
YOU  too,"  said  his  mother. 

David  saw  her  eyes  fill  and  her  chin  quiver,  and 
eoin*  quickly  up  to  her  he  said :  — 

-  But  they  won't  take  me.     If  they  'd  wanted  me, 
they  'd  taken  me  with  Andrew.     We  'II  just  cruise 
along  shore  and  see.     We  may  have  a  chance  to  let 
Andrew  know  we  are  around.    If  he  hears  my    call, 

he  'II  know  I  'm  near." 

"  Your  '  call '  ?    What 's  that  ?  "  said  his  mother. 
David  made  three  caws  like  a  crow's.    "That's 


42 


Tlir.   SKAIU'II    V^m   ANDIIEW   FIKM) 


it,"  siiitl  lie.     "I   know    if   Andrew  Ims  been   near 
shore  and  lieard  any  crows  lie  '»  liHtoned  Hharp." 

"Well,  if  Mr.  S|)icer  is  willinj^  for  liis  boys  to  j^o 
in  this  busy  time  of  the  year,  1  '11  not  object  to  your 
goint?;  only  do  be  careful." 

"All  right,  mother,"  said  David,  already  outside 
the  door,  as  ho  and  Elijah  started  toward  Mr. 
Sjiicer's   place. 

Mr.  Spicer  willingly  gave  his  consent  as  he  said: 
"The  hay  can  wait  better  than  Andrew  can.  How 
long  do  yon  think  you  will  be  gone?"  And  before 
David  could  reply,  he  said,  "Not  less  than  six 
weeks  in  my  opinion,  and  may  bo  longer.  So  you 
had  better  make  your  plans  for  a  long  journey." 

All  through  the  day  the  boys  were  busy  getting 
their  supplies  for  their  voyage.  Their  boat  was 
hardly  large  enough  for  them  to  use  at  night  to  sleep 
in  except  in  case  of  storms,  so  an  old  tent  that  be- 
longed to  Mr.  Field  was  taken  on  board.  Salt  pork 
and  meal  formed  their  chief  supplies,  and  their  guns 
and  fish  lines  were  to  help  in  securing  provisions. 
The  boys  were  so  busy  in  arranging  for  their  trip 
that  they  at  times  almost  forgot  the  object  of  it  all; 
but  the  sad  face  of  his  mother,  as  she  watched  the 
boys  and  helped  them  get  ready  for  their  cruise, 
called  David  back  to  himself. 

"Remember  we're  going  to  get  Andrew,"  he 
would   say;  and  his  brave  words  would  cheer  his 


I) 

bot'ii  iirnr 
liirp. 

boyH  to  f^o 
'<'.t  to  your 

idy  outsido 
)\vard    Mr. 

s  he  Buid : 
;aa  How 
\nd  before 

than   six 
So  you 
rney. " 
isy  getting 

boat  was 
;ht  to  sleep 
tit  that  be- 

Salt  pork 

their  guns 

provisions. 

their  trip 
t  of  it  all; 
atched  the 
uir   cruise, 

drew,"  he 
cheer  his 


DAVID   FORMS   A   IM.AS 


48 


n..,lluM-,  though  David,  if  he  had  had  half  as  nuu-h 
,..,„,,.,,,,.,  i„  th.  S...T..SS  of  tlu.ir  uudn-taku.g  as 
bin  w.rdH  H.MMU..d  to  iuM'ly,  would  have  been  glml. 
,5nt  wh.MU.ver  he  felt  his  heart  «iuk,  he  worked  t lu, 
,,a,der,    and    the   day   was   goue    almost   before   he 

realized  it. 

"David,"  said  the  old  preacher  to  him  as  he  came 
f,om  the  boat  the  la.t  time,  M  want  you  to  take  the 

horse  and  go  over  and  see  Colonel  Betti..ger  before 
von  start.  You  M  better  get  n  n..te  from  bun,  fm-  .t 
;„ay  he  of  some  use  to  you  if   you   shouhl   get   into 

trouble."  m    f 

''I'll  go  and  see  him,"  answered  David;  imt 
notes  from  American  colonels  don't  seem  to  count 
for  much  on  my  journeys.  I  don't  see  why  our 
country  can't  stand  up  for  its  own  men  just  as  well 

as  England  can." 

«You  know,  David,"  said  the  old  man,  smiling, 
"that  our  nation  is  young  yet.  We  have  had  so 
,nany  things  to  settle  among  ourselves  that  we  have 
n't  been  able  to  do  much  outside.  But  1  lived  in 
the  time  of  the  Revolution.  I  saw  what  men  could 
do  then,  and  they  can  do  the  same  now,  if  the  occa- 
sion  demands  it,"  and  the  old  man's  voice  became 
stronger,  and  his  eyes  flashed  a  little  as  he  spoke. 
"But  I  don't  believe  this  country  will  ever  fight. 

I  wish  it  would." 

"You  will  Boon  see  enough  to  make  you  sad,  and 


I 


41 


TIIK  SKAUrir  FOR   ANDHF.W   Frr.1,1) 


I 


I 


yot  prniid  of  your  country,  uiy  hoy,"  said  tlio  old 
innu  j^ciilly.  "  I  \vii>;  willi  (Jcucral  (irccuc  all  through 
]ii8  Soutlicrn  campaigns,  and  1  don't  helievo  th(4(f 
WHH  n  nobler  man  in  the  world,  unless  it  was  Wanli- 
ington;  and  I  know  wo  haven't  degenerated  any 
duriu}^  the  last  thirty-five  years." 

"Some  lime  I  'm  jroing  to  ask  you  to  tell  me  about 
Cieneral  (Jreeiu',"  said  David,  as  he  sprauj?  upon  his 
hor8(!'s  Itack  and  was  soon  lost  to  sight. 

Colonel  Bet  linger  was  not  liopeful  of  the  issue  of 
the  boys'  journey;  indeed,  bo  feared  trouble  for 
them,  and  said  bo.  Jhit  when  David  told  him  nil 
their  plans,  and  how  the  boat  was  provisioned,  and 
that  their  parents  had  given  their  consent,  he  wrote 
for  him  two  letters.  One  was  to  the  commander  at 
Oswego,  nnd  the  other  was  a  general  note,  stating 
that  he  knew  David  Field,  and  asked  all  who  could, 
to  aid  him  in  his  search  for  his  brother. 

David  thanked  the  Colonel,  and  started  for  home. 
He  let  his  horse  come  from  his  swinging  gallop  to  a 
trot,  and  from  a  trot  to  a  walk.  lie  was  thinking  of 
the  morrow,  and  what  it  would  bring  forth.  Suppose 
he  should  be  taken  ?  Was  it  not  a  great  risk  he  ran 
in  going  on  such  a  journey  ?  And  his  heart  sank 
within  him  for  the  time.  And  then  he  thought  of 
Andrew.  He  could  see  him  now  as  he  was  in  the 
yawl  with  his  face  turned  toward  him,  and  waving 
his  hand  in  farewell. 


DAVID  FOUM8   A   PLAN 


4$ 


tlio  Olil 
I  through 

18  WuhIi- 
itt'd   any 

mo  about; 
iipun  Ills 

issue  of 
uble  for 

him  nil 
nod,  and 
he  wrote 
mndcr  at 
,  statin}? 
lie  could, 

or  home, 
illop  to  a 
inking  of 
Suppose 
ik  he  ran 
art  sank 
lought  of 
IS  in  the 
I  waving 


"He's  the  best  brother  in  the  world,  and  I'll  do 
Huythinji  I  can  for  him,"  said  ho  to  hiniHolf,  a» 
his  spirits  rose  again,  and  he  started  the  ho.so  into 

He  found  the  family  all  waiting  for  him,  and  the 
pale  face  of  his  father  startled  him  as  he  came  into 
the  room.  The  old  preacher  read  a  chapter,  an<l  all 
kneeled  down  to  pray.  David  thought  the  old  man 
was  not  ono  to  be  afraid  of  now;  and  he  followed 
his  words,  and  felt  his  own  heart  grow  soft,  as  the 
sweet-voiced  old  man  prayed  for  his  young  brother 
and  that  the  (Jod  of  battles  would  go  before  him  with 
the  pillar  of  cloud  and  fire.  ^     _ 

David  thought  of  many  things  that  night  in  his 
little  attic  room.  When  would  he  sleep  there  again  ? 
Would  he  ever  come  back?  And  the  "cloud  and 
l)illar"  of  the  preacher's  prayer  came  back  to  him, 
and  he  was  soon  asleep. 


..  itiii»iiiy*i.'4.»iiir  I  niiriilnt-<ni.<iHi«iri 


46 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  V 


A    NIGHT   ADVENTOBB 


DAVID  was  up  in  the  morning  before  the  sun. 
Yet,  early  as  he  was,  he  liad  hardly  time  to  go 
out  to  the  barns  before  he  heard  Elijah  and  Henry 
calling  to  him.  A  hurx'ied  brealtfast  and  a  hastily 
spoken  farewell,  and  the  boys  were  off. 

"  David,  remember  your  promise  to  keep  near  the 
shore,  and  to  come  ashore  whenever  a  squall  comes 
up,"  was  the  last  word  he  heard. 

"All  right,"  he  replied,  as  he  lagged  a  little 
behind  the  other  boys,  and  turned  for  a  parting  look 
at  the  little  group  on  the  doorstep,  waving  their 
hands  to  him  in  farewell. 

Their  little  cat-rigged  boat  was  all  ready  when 
they  came  to  the  shore,  and  the  provisions  and  cook- 
ing utensils  and  tent  were  as  they  had  left  them. 
In  a  few  minutes  they  had  put  off,  and  the  little 
Pilot  (for  that  was  the  name  of  their  boat)  was  soon 
in  motion,  and  their  journey  had  begun. 

"  Father  said  he  thought  we  should  have  to  look 
out  for  a  storm  to-day,"  said  Elijah,  as  he  turned  his 


A  NIGHT  ADVENTURE 


47 


the  sun. 
line  to  go 
,d  Henry 
a  hastily 

near  the 
ill  comes 

a  little 
ting  look 
ng  their 

Ldy  when 
ind  cook- 
jft  them, 
the  little 
was  soon 

e  to  look 
arned  his 


eyes  toward  the  clouds  he  saw  out  over  the  lake. 
"  I  don't  believe  he  would  have  let  ua  come  if  we 
hadn't  taken  that  tent,  and  promised  to  sleep  every 
night  on  shore." 

"  Sometimes  we  can  go  to  a  farmhouse,"  remarked 
David;  "though  I  think  there  is  more  fun  in  sleep- 
ing in  a  tent  and  cooking  your  own  meals." 

"So  do  1,"  replied  Elijah;  "and  we  can  catch 
fish,  for  1  have  brought  our  bass-lines  along,"  and 
he  took  out  his  box  of  fishing  tackle.  "You  know 
we  alwnys  had  great  luck  out  here  fishing,"  and  he 
looked  half  laughingly  at  David. 

»  You  could  n't  beat  the  catch  Andrew  and  I  had 
that  day  he  was  pressed.  But  we  shall  have  time 
enough  to  see  who  can  catch  the  most  before  we  get 
home.     I  don't  think  we  shall  be  back  right  away." 

"I  don't  either,"  said  Elijah,  "and  if  it  weren't 
for  Andrew,  I  don't  know  that  I  should  care.  This 
is  more  fun  than  haying.  We  should  have  to  begin 
that  pretty  soon,  and  father  wants  us  to  get  back 
in  time  if  we  can." 

The  boat  sped  on.  The  wind  was  rising,  and 
the  air  became  chilly. 

"We  're  going  down  along  the  Rocks  first,  to  see 

if  we  can  find  out  anything  about  the  Oaprey.     If 

she  's  gone  across  the  lake,  we  '11  go  right  back  home, 

so  as  to  be  there  to  help  the  men,"  said  David. 

"We  sha'n't  get  very  far  to-day,"  said  Elijah,  as 


MiiifiiKifl>iAii 


48 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


the  spray  began  to  dash  over  the  boat.  "  I  don  t 
much  like  the  looks  of  things.  We  are  going  t^'.  have 
some  squalls,  I  know  from  the  way  the  clouds  look." 

The  boat  began  to  roll,  and  the  air  became  darker 
every  minute. 

"  I  guess  we  '11  put  up  under  the  loc  of  that  island 
and  wait  a  while,"  said  David,  who  held  the  tiller  in 
his  hand. 

"That's  the  best  thing  to  do,"  said  Henry.  "I 
know  a  man  who  came  over  here  fishing,  and  he  got 
driven  under  the  lee  of  this  island,  and  he  had  to  stay 
here  three  days  before  he  could  get  ashore  again." 

"That 's  a  cheerful  prospect,"  said  David.  "But 
we  can  stand  it.  We  can  crawl  into  the  boat  if  it 
rains  too  hard  for  the  tent,  and  we  *ve  got  enough 
to  eat  if  we  can  get  a  fire,"  said  he,  laughing. 

The  rain  came  with  the  wind.  All  through  the 
day  the  boys  remained  there,  not  more  than  five 
miles  from  home,  and  yet  afraid  to  venture  forth. 
But  later  in  the  afternoon  the  storm  abated,  and  the 
wind  died  down. 

"  We  '11  go  on  over  beyond  the  Rocks  and  get  a 
place  to  stay  to-night,"  said  David. 

"Are  you  going  to  a  house  or  to  camp  out?" 
asked  Henry. 

"0,  we  '11  try  the  house  first  and  sec.  The  Smiths 
live  over  there  somewhere.  I  don't  know  them  very 
well,  but  they  '11  keep  us  over  night  I  think." 


vr 


I) 

"  I    d0!i  t 

ingt'-.  liave 
uds  look." 
lue  darker 

hat  island 
le  tiller  in 

onry.     "I 
and  he  got 
liad  to  stay 
again." 
id.     "  But 

boat  if  it 
;ot  enough 
ing. 
irough  the 

than  five 
ure  forth, 
d,  and  the 

and  get  a 

rap  out?" 

rhe  Smiths 
them  very 
ik."- 


A  NIGHT  ADVKN'TURE 


49 


"  I  'vc  heard  some  queer  stories  about  the  Smiths 
and  the  smugglers,"  said  Elijah;  "but  I  don't  be- 
lie vo  half  I  hear." 

As  they  came  ucaicr  shore  the  wind  began  to  rise 
again  and  the  rain  to  fall.  The  boys  were  silent, 
but  they  were  working  and  watchful.  .The  dull 
afternoon  grew  darker  all  the  time. 

"It  must  be  after  sunset,"  said  Henry.  "Do  you 
know  where  the  Smiths  live  ?     I  don't." 

"Yes,  I  know,"  said  David,  "and  it  won't  take  us 
long  to  get  there." 

By  the  time  the  boys  had  run  the  little  Pilot  into 
u  cove,  and  anchored  her  fast,  and  covered  every- 
thing of  value  in  her  to  keep  the  rain  out,  it  was 
dark,  and  the  rain  was  coming  down  harder  than 
before.  It  was  with  great  difficulty  the  boys  could 
find  their  way,  as  they  slowly  pushed  on  along  the 
rough  country  road. 

It  was  late  in  the  evening  when  they  came  to  the 
Smiths'  house,  but  there  was  a  light  in  the  kitchen 
that  showed  they  were  at  home  and  awake. 

The  sharp  knock  upon  the  door  which  the  boys 
gave  brought  a  hurrying  of  footsteps  inside,  and  a 
moving  of  the  lights.  They  heard  the  bolt  slip  in 
the  door,  but  no  word  of  welcome  came  to  them. 

Another  spell  of  knocking  caused  a  window  in  the 
chamber  overhead  to  be  raised,  and  a  shrill  voice 
called  out,  "Who's  there  ?" 

4 


30 


TUB  SKAUCll   I'UK   jiNDUliVV   FIKLI) 


"Some  boys  caught  in  the  storm,"  replied  David. 
"  VVliat  boys  ?  "  was  the  question  that  cainc  down 

to  tllt'Ul. 

"The  Field  and  Spicer  boys  from  over  by  Sack- 
ett's,"  was  the  reply. 

There  was  a  moment's  hesitation,  a  whispered 
conversation,  and  then  the  bolt  was  drawn,  the  door 
was  opened,  and  the  boys  entered. 

They  saw  three  women,  or  rather  one  woman  and 
two  tall  girls,  evidently  her  daughters,  who  stood 
back  and  looked  shyly,  and  yet  with  great  interest, 
at  their  belated  and  wet  guests. 

"We  were  caught  in  the  storm,"  said  David,  "and 
we  should  like  it  very  much  if  you  would  give  us 
shelter  for  the  night.  We  '11  [)ay  you  for  all  the 
trouble  we  make,"  added  he,  after  a  moment. 

"It  isn't  the  money  1  'm  thinking  of,"  said  the 
woman.  "  I  don't  see  how  I  can  let  ye  in  to-night. 
And  yet  I  hate  to  turn  you  out  in  this  rain,"  she 
added,  as  there  came  a  heavier  dash  against  the 
windows.  "Well,  if  you  '11  sleep  on  the  floor  in  the 
attic,  I  guess  ye  can  stay,"  she  finally  said. 

The  boys  were  glad  of  this  welcome,  ungracious  as 
it  seemed  to  be.  And  as  they  sat  by  the  fireplace 
drying  themselves  before  they  went  to  bed,  they  told 
the  story  of  Andrew's  seizure,  and  of  the  object  of 
their  journey. 

"  The  Osprey,    did  ye  say  V "    said  the  woman, 


.1) 


A  NIGHT  ADVENTUUE 


51 


ied  David, 
came  down 

!r  by  Sack- 
whispered 
'n,  the  door 

troman  and 

who  stood 

at  interest, 

»avid,  "and 
lid  give  us 
for  all  the 
ent. 

,"  said  the 
n  to-night, 
rain,"  she 
igainst  the 
floor  in  the 
d. 

gracious  as 
le  fireplace 
1,  they  told 
e  object  of 

he  woman, 


sharply ;  and  a  (piick  glance  passed  from  the  daugh- 
ters to  their  mother.  "  Why,  that  'a  a  man  o'  war, 
and  you  boys  could  n't  do  anything  if  you  did  find 
her.  If  my  man  was  home,  ho  'd  tell  you  so  too. 
He'll  be  here  pretty  quick." 

But  the  boys  were  all  dry  and  warm  now,  and   , 
asked  to  be  shown  up  stairs. 

The  girls  took  a  couple  of  candles  and  led  the  way 
to  the  unfinished  attic  room.  David  was  impressed 
by  the  number  of  strong  chests  that  lined  the  room, 
each  locked  with  a  heavy  padlock.  He  thought  of 
what  Elijah  had  said  about  the  Smiths  being  con- 
nected with  the  smugglers;  but  the  girls  had  gone 
now,  and  the  boys  silently  were  getting  ready  for 
bed.  David  examined  the  door,  and  found  it  could 
be  locked  only  from  the  outside.  "1  don't  just  like 
the  looks  of  things,"  said  he  to  Elijah;  "but  we  '11 
get  out  of  this  early  in  the  norning." 

But  just  then  they  heard  a  heavy  tramping  down 
stairs,  and  they  knew  some  men  had  entered. 

"It 's  Mr.  Smith  and  Elihu  come  home,  I  guess," 
whispered  Henry  to  Elijah. 

"  There  's  more  than  two  of  'em.  Hark !  what 's 
that  ?  "  said  David  quickly. 

The  boys  listened,  but  could  hear  only  the  voices 
of  the  persons  below  as  they  engaged  in  earnest 
conversation. 

"I  tell  you  I  know  that  voice,"  whispered  David, 


'liri'iiiiiiitliOTirT  -    --  -'  ■- 


; 


ii  i 


1! 


i 


»  V 


52 


TJIK  SKAKCH   FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 


excitedly.  "That's  the  boatswain  of  the  Osprey, 
I  know  it  is.  I  could  tell  those  tones  it'  1  heard 
them  in  China,  We  're  in  a  box,  boys.  I  'm  going 
down  to  see  what's  going  on,"  said  he.  "You 
stay  here  and  wait."  And  in  his  bare  feet  David 
crept  out  of  the  room,  and  waited  and  listened  upon 
the  stairs. 

The  woman  was  telling  of  the  coming  of  the  boys; 
and  as  David  listened  he  could  hear  her  tell  of  their 
journey  and  its  object. 

"I  don't  know  what  you  let  them  in  for,  anyway," 
growled  her  husband.  "  Here's  the  Osprey  close  by, 
and  no  one  knows  what  they  may  sec  and  hear. 
Besides,  those  chests  upstairs  are  not  empty  either." 

"Well,"  said  the  boatswain,  "I  don't  care  for  the 
boys.  We  've  got  this  Andrew  they  're  after.  It 
may  get  you  into  trouble  if  they  suspect  anything. 
We  're  going  to  have  trouble  with  the  United  States 
anyway  pretty  soon,  and  I  don't  care  if  we  begin 
now.  These  boys  don't  come  alone;  there's  more 
than  a  party  of  younkers  in  this." 

"But  you  don't  think  we  're  going  to  have  a  war, 
do  you  ?  "  inquired  Smith. 

"  Well,  it  looks  that  way.     You  see  in  the  other 
war  Great  Britain  was  having  too  much  trouble  with . 
France  just  then  to  bother  about  the  Colonies.     But 
she  did  n't  like  to  be  whipped  by  a  lot  of  backwoods- 
men.    She  had  just  as  soon  have  another  bout  as 


^MiwaM 


A  NIGHT  ADVKNTIHE 


53 


f  Osprey, 
t'  I  heard 
[  'm  going 
0.  "  You 
cet  David 
;ened  upon 

the  boys; 
ill  of  their 

anyway," 
\'  close  by, 
and  hear. 
ty  either. " 
re  for  the 

after.     It 

anything, 
ted  States 

we  begin 
re  's  more 

avp  a  war, 

the  other 
ouble  with . 
nies.     But 
tackwoods- 
3r  bout  as 


not.  But  these  boys  can't  make  any  trouble.  We  've 
•rot  this  fellow,  Andrew,  at  work,  and  we  've  found 
out  he  can  work  too.  We  '11  be  off  in  the  morning 
before  they  're  up,  and  they  won't  siispect  anybody  's 
bct-nherc.     Whew,  how  it  ruins!" 

"I  don't  like  their  being  here  at  all.  They'll 
get  me  into  trouble,"  said  Smith.  "I  guess  the 
safest  thing  for  me  to  do  will  be  to  look  after  them 
a  little  myself,"  and  he  started  for  a  candle,  with 
the  evident  intention  of  paying  the  boys  a  visit  in 

their  room. 

David  hurriedly  and  quietly  ran  back  to  the  boys. 
"They're  coming  up  here,"  he  excitedly  whispered 
to  his  companions.  "  The  door  opens  this  way ;  let 's 
hold  it  if  we  can."  And  the  boys  braced  themselves 
against  the  door.  It  was  so  dark  they  could  not 
see  one  another's  faces,  but  David  was  sure  the  other 
boys  could  hear  his  heart  beat.  It  sounded  to  him 
like  the  rapid  strokes  of  a  sledge-hammer.  "  Hark ! 
he  's  coming,"  whispered  he.  « If  he  finds  the  door 
is  fast,  I  don't  believe  he  will  try  to  get  in." 

The  stealthy  footsteps  drew  nearer,  the  boards 
creaked,  and  their  visitor  stopped.  The  light  from 
his  candle  came  in  through  the  cracks. 

"He's  coming;  he's  right  here,"  whispered 
David;  "now  hold  on." 

The  man  was  by  the  door,  and  he  was  evidently 
listening;  but  no  sound  came  from  within.     David 


54 


THE  SKAKCII    FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 


gave  Elijah  a  mulge  witli  his  elbow  to  show  the  time 
of  action  hud  come;  btit  there  was  no  picssuro 
against  the  door.  They  heard  the  bolt  steadily  and 
quietly  slipped  into  its  jdace  from  the  outside,  and 
the  retreating  footsteps  of  the  man  as  he  went  down 
stairs  with  stealthy  tread.  The  door  was  locked, 
and  the  bova  were  t.rnnnod 


■-s,-,. 


LI) 


AN   ESCAl'K 


66 


iw  the  time 
10  pressure 
teadily  and 
mtside,  and 
went  down 
raa   locked, 


CHArTER  VI 

AN    ESCAPE 

T-„E  tays  faced  a  ,lU»mma.  Thoy  had  no  light, 
T"Ll  Un,  with  »Hcht„nv.Uc  one  *ey 
could  not  .CO  one  anolhert  faces.     A  Uttlo  l.„n 

T- rrf  i:^ -"». '"'r;;  ^^^'^ 

„i     „„a  li.trnin"  to  U\c  sound  of  the  voices 
ping  soltly,  and  Ustemn,  ^^^^^  ^^ 

that  ca,ne  up  '""^^^'-^-./^..^y  „„„,d  now  dimly 
MlooKcdontatthc  mght.     1     y  ^ 

r^sI^TaCdMralional  glimpses  of  the 

"'i'SIhe  hest  thing  we  can  do  is  to  get  out  of 
tMs  "tidEliiah.    "Thcythin.they.vegot;.ssu.e, 
hntWyninndweacenotsoeasOy    augM^    ,    ^^^^ 
"Supvose    some    of    them    suo.n 

"?SJ;  .„  honll  to  have  trouble  it  we  stay  here£ 
DavrdUlied,"  and  I  think  the  best  thing  we  can  do 


56 


THE  SEAHCH    KOH   ANDIM.W    FIKI-D 


n 


ia  to  mako  a  break.  It  ia  u't  over  ten  feet  ti;  the 
j^nnind,  uiid  I  'm  not  iifraiil  to  try  thiit.  We  eiin  let 
ourselves  out  of  tlic  wiiulow,  and  uiak(>  for  the  boat." 

"You  go  firHt,"  said  Elijah  to  David.  So,  care- 
fully crawling  Ihrough  th«' wind(tw,  David  let  hiuisclf 
fall  to  the  ground.  Henry  followed,  and  then  eanio 
Elijah;  but  a8  he  was  getting  ready  to  let  liiumelf 
down,  a  sound  from  within  the  houao  atartled  him, 
and  letting  go,  he  came  to  the  ground  in  such  a 
manner  that  his  shoes  serai)ed  the  sides  of  the 
house,  and  the  noise  he  made  was  heard  within. 
There  was  a  rush  for  the  door,  but  Elijah  had  made 
for  the  road  with  the  others,  and  now  they  could  not 
be  seen.  Secure  in  the  durkness,  they  waited  a 
moment  for  all  three  to  come  together,  and  to  see 
■what  was  likely  to  take  place  in  the  house. 

Even  as  they  were  waiting,  they  heard  the  voice 
of  Smith  calling  from  the  window  of  the  room  they 
had  left:  "They're  gone.  Get  after  them,  for  if 
they  get  away  I  'm  a  ruined  man.  They  must  have 
left  their  boat  down  by  the  cove,  and  we  '11  cut  across 
and  get  them  yet,  and  atop  their  talking." 

The  boys  Avaited  for  no  further  hint.  Together 
they  started,  unmindful  of  the  mud  and  water  that 
splashed  upon  them  from  the  puddles  through  which 
they  ran.  They  never,  stopped  to  take  breath  imtil 
they  came  all  panting  to  the  little  Pilot,  which  lay 
just  where  they  had   anchored  her.     It  was  short 


i.-...: .- 


;^::;;;."i-i,-i?i,».^=i^.=v-..^-H--^^«'a^'  Ynrt'f'-i'mn.'KM  , 


ict  t(f  the 
re  cnn  lot 
ho  bout." 
So,  caro- 
L't  hiiiiscll' 
hen  cainc 
't  liiniHcll' 
tl(>(l  hiiii, 

11  HlU'h  u 
'8     of     tllO 

d  williin. 

had  made 
conhl  not 
waited    a 

iiid  to  SCO 

ISO. 

the  voice 
room  they 
nn,  for  if 
nu8t  have 
cut  across 

Together 
water  that 
ugh  which 
eath  until 
which  lay 
was  short 


i 


■(     I,  \\\IIN''      I"'-' 


\>\    111   1  I  I    II' 


M-l   I   I      I    \l  I  • 


i 


AN  KSCAVK 


m 


«.nvk  to  pull  up  the  anchor  and  take  the  oars  for  a 
XtloLr.  They  aid  not  stop  to  raise.1^^^^^^^^^^^^ 
L  thoir  only  purpose  now  was  to  put  all  the  dis 

Thov  heard  the  voices  of  the  iiion  a>  incy 
:,Z  lir  oa,.,  ,0  that  the  „oi.e  thoy  made  would 
"l-rrrrrWca^e  into  the  cove  at  a>V. 

*e,hoa,.dthehoai.wai„.ay.    ;^''"X,^-X 
iv„n  flinv  for  we  cut  across  lots,     xiii-y 
here  sooner  than  thcj,  loi  we  ..u 

must  he  somewhere  else."  ^  ,„,„  ,i,i- " 

"If  they  .«,  they  are  gone  from  here  before  th.s 
answered  Smith.     "We  might  a.  well  go  home  and 
;     romc  of  this  mud  off.     Tho)--'  have  heard 

what  we  were  saying  down  ^^"fJ'l^^fl^XT.t 
ily    "and  they'll   report  it  at  Sack  ett  s  the  first 

tog.     I  don't  believe  a  word  of  that  stor,  ah  u 
S  being  after  their  brother.     I  l'-  *- ^">^ 

are  not  such  fools  as  to  let  a  parcel  <>'  J™"'"-"  f 

off  alone  like  that.     But  that  doesn't  help  me  any. 

I  wish  I  never  had  touched  your  stuft.  __ 

'.  But  you  've  made  some  money,  have  n  t  you  . 

said  the  boatswain.     "I  don't  see  what  you  are 

'Tyr^'soe  what  all  the  folks  around  here 
thinlotml     UeeiasiflwasacousinofBe„ed,ot 

Arnold." 


!i!«Biii».aina3n* 


s^.^r^^^^"' 


&8 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW    FIELD 


< 


"You're  in  fer  it,  anyhow,"  replied  his  com- 
panion. "I'm  going  back  to  the  Osprey;  don't 
you  want  to  go,  too  ?  There  arc  some  fellows  at 
Oswego  who  are  coming  aboard.  We  '11  take  care 
of  you  now." 

"No,  I  'm  going  home.  I  don't  know  what  I  '11  do 
next.  I  'm  in  a  scrape  sure,  and  perhaps  I  will  join 
you  after  a  little,"  he  added. 

"  Well,  I  'm  off  for  the  Osprey.  Wc  sha'n't  be 
here  again  in  a  good  while  now.  We  've  got  other 
work  on  hand.  Good  by,"  he  added,  as  he  turned 
to  go. 

There  was  silence  soon  upon  the  shore,  and  th. 
boys  turned  again  to  their  oars.     "We  '11  go  down 
the  shore  a  little  way,  and  anchor.     Some  one  of  us 
will  have  to  keep  guard,  but  two  can  go  to  sleep,  and 
we  '11  all  take  turns,"  said  David. 

An  hour's  row  brought  them  to  the  mouth  of  a 
large  creek  that  emptied  into  the  lake.  "  Here  's  a 
good  place  to  anchor,"  said  David.  "You  two  turn 
in,  and  I  '11  stay  on  guard  till  I  get  tired,  and  then 
I  '11  call  one  of  you." 

The  long  hours  of  the  night  passed  on,  and  David 
shared  his  duty  with  Elijah.  The  morning  light 
brought  to  them  a  clear  day,  and  they  looked  out  over 
the  lake  to  see  if  they  could  see  anything  of  the 
Osprey. 

But  the  lake  was  all  quiet,  and  not  a  sail  was  to 


AN  ESCAPE 


59 


I 


his   com- 


ey; 


don't 


fellows  at 
take  care 

tiat  I  '11  do 
I  will  join 

sha'n't  be 
got  other 
he  turned 

;,  and  th- 
1  go  down 
3  one  of  us 
sleep,  and 

loutfc  of  a 
"  Here  's  a 
u  two  turn 
[,  and  then 

and  David 
ning  light 
id  out  over 
ing  of   the 

sail  was  to 


be  seen.      "We  HI  cook  our  hreaktast  on  shore, 

guc*,"  said  David.  •,  m;;-!,.  "I -vc 

"HoW  on  a  minute,  David,"  ""'l  ^  'jf-     \    " 

heen  llshing  here    l>efore    this,    and  I  know   th.s 

gfound     Let's  try  for  some  bass;  they'd  be  good 

^rlt  then,  and  let  Henry  and  .c  go  ashore 
and  get  a  fi.;  started,  if  we  can  find  any  wood  d,y 

"sfaiiah  set  the  two  boys  on  shore,  and  then 
pushed  out  to  try  his  h,ek  with  the  fish. 

"Tl,is  is  a  fine  idaeo  to  camp  in,  sa.d  Henry. 
.1  .riikc  to  stay  here  a  week.  We  could  p.teh  onr 
tent  under  those  rocks  and  have  a  8°~ 

"Yes,  and  the  Osprcy  could  see  .t  all  it  she  came 
alon  ,  and  then  what  could  we  do  for  Andrew?  I 
want  to  find  some  one  to  help  us  get  h.m  out  of  h,s 

%t  boystmd  some  wood  that  was  dry  enough  to 
burn  and  started  back  toward  the  shore.  The  w,ld 
rrrrle.  grew  profusely  there,  »nd  Henry  stopped 
to  fill  his  hati  and  when  he  came  back  to  the  shore 
Datd  hid  the  fire  started,  and  Elijah  was  w>th  h,n. 
Taning  a  large  bass.     Four  others,  hardly  yet  dead, 

-r.rgtYT:::!::ft  might  come  handy 
"S:;"^'ca-rtyb.ak.as.    Thcyhadbeen 


I 


60 


THE  SEAHCH  FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 


in  the  woods  so  often  that  camping  ont  was  ar  old 
experience.  The  fish  they  fried  with  salt  pork,  and 
the  berries  made  a  good  dessert.  Elijah  was  an 
expert  with  corn  meal,  and  it  was  but  a  little  time 
before' the  boys,  refreshed  and  rested,  were  ready 
to  rcsiuncttheir  journey. 

"  You  h^'d  what  the  boatswain  said,  did  n't  you  ?  " 
inquired  David.  "I  have  a  letter  to  the  commander 
at  Oswego,  and  the  boatswain  said  they  were  going 
to  take  on  some  men  there.  I  think  the  best  thing 
we  can  do  is  to  push  on  toward  Oswego.  Perhaps  it 
won't  be  too  late  after  we  get  there,  for  it  can't  bo 
that  the  Osprey  has  gone  ahead  of  us.  She  isn't 
anywhere  in  sight  now,  and  the  sooner  we  start  out 
the  better." 

To  this  the  other  boys  agreed,  and  the  Pilot  was 
soon  headed  up  the  lake,  the  boys  keeping  well  in 
near  shore. 

"The  boatswain  said  last  night  there  would  be  war 
soon  between  the  United  States  and  England,"  said 
David.  "  I  'm  glad  of  it,  and  I  hope  it  '11  come.  If 
England  can  come  in  here  and  take  any  of  our  men 
right  off  our  own  boats,  I  don't  see  where  the 
freedom  is.  They  say  we  live  in  the  land  of  the 
free." 

"Don't  you  remember  last  winter  up  in  the  check- 
ered schoolhouse  how  we  parsed  the  Declaration  of 
Independence?    Well,  that  said  all  men  were  created 


AN  ESCAPE 


61 


IS  ar  old 
pork,  and 
I  was  an 
ittle  time 
3rc  ready 

I't  you  ?  " 
mmander 
ere  going 
jest  thing 
'erhaps  it 
;  can't  be 
She  is  n't 
!  start  out 

Pilot  was 
g  well  in 

lid  be  war 
md,"  said 
come.  If 
f  our  men 
yhere  the 
ad  of  the 

;he  check - 
aration  of 
re  created 


cl      It  Bcems  to  me,  the   English  are 

get  him,  and  yet  I  thinK  «  , 

W.«  «>ey  «•'"  ^  .fTT'  The  wind  wa,  light,  and 
So  the  boj«  -"""""-ort  dead  against  them.  But 
what  there  was,  "»  f  T  '  ^rey.  At  night  they 
.hey  gained  »°  ''f  °\*;°;;;;L  a  little  within 
went  ashore,  and  placed  the  .  tent  J 
the  trees  that  came  almost  down  to  Ore  wate  k 

^'^r:rrirrtS^:u"aU 
r  r«r  Biiia*.  - -r:r«s 

as  Henry,  wishmg  to  take  ^"'^'^         ^^     j„„„d 
had  eanght  some  fresh  ones.    Jheberrr^         , 
in  as  great  abundance  as  ever,  and  attei 
supper  they  were  i-eady  i^^'^^.       ,  „  ^^.4  Elijah. 
..Shall  we  keep  »  g^"^  "^f^'^  ,,,,  a  fre  they 

wiii':::.'::-::^"--^^^^^^^^^ 
r;rwt:rgr:r:^£--»- 

UhUndpntsomefreshJ^-n-hre.     ^^^^_^^.^ 
WHh  a  roanng  ««  '"'^^^/^^^y  bankets,   and 

:;:terrho:ghr:Mchth;hadcnt.ora 


-yir- 


m 


THE  SEAKCII  FOR  ANDREW    FIELD 


bed,  and  piled  high  up  'n  their  tent,  they  slept  as 
only  boys  know  how  when  they  are  camping  in  the 
woods.  Once  Elijah  rose  and  placed  some  fresh  logs 
upon  the  smouldering  fire,  and  once  David  did  the 
same.  He  looked  out  over  the  water  in  the  moon- 
light to  see  if  he  could  see  anything  upon  the  lake. 
But  nothing  was  in  sight,  and  the  only  sound  he 
could  hear  was  an  owl  out  among  the  trees,  and  the 
lapping  of  the  little  waves  of  the  lake,  as  they  fell 
upon  the  pebbly  beach  at  his  feet. 

In  the  early  morning,  after  another  breakfast  upon 
fish  caught  for  the  occasion  by  Henry,  the  boys  set 
sail.  The  day  was  calm  and  beautiful, —  too  calm 
for  sailing,  the  boys  thought.  Another  night  came, 
and  again  the  boys  camped  upon  the  shore,  and  re- 
peated their  experiences  of  the  previous  night. 

"We  can't  be  very  far  from  Oswego  now,"  said 
David.  "  It  was  n't  much  over  fifty  miles  from  home, 
anyway.     We  must  be  pretty  near  there  now. " 

"Yes,  I  think  so,  too,"  answered  Elijah,  and  they 
■were  not  mistaken.  In  the  early  part  of  the  next 
forenoon  they  came  in  sight  of  the  fort. 

"What  a  big  place  it  is,"  said  Elijah,  who  had 
never  been  from  home  before,  except  to  the  neighbor- 
ing settlements.  They  sailed  within  the  harbor  and 
admired  the  place,  which  to  them  seemed  so  large, 
situated  on  either  side  of  the  river. 

"  What  a  lot  of  boats  there  are  here ! "  said  Elijah, 


r  slept  as 
ig  in  the 
fresh  logs 
i  did  the 
he  moon- 
the  lake, 
sound  he 
I,  and  the 
they  fell 


AN   ESCAVE 


63 


,„t  David  did  not  reply.     Elijah  turned  to  see  why 

""Z^:^  with  open  .outh,  staring  at  a^shlp 
thatlayalongsidethedockthey^^re^^^^^^^^^^^^ 
followed  David's  gaze,  and  saw  tne        b 
floating   on  which  was  the  word  "  Osprey.       On  the 
"tTL  a  man,  to  whom  David  pointed,  and  exc.t- 
cdly  said,  "  There  's  the  boatswain. 


fast  upon 
boys  set 
too  calm 
;ht  came, 
5,  and  re- 
ht. 

ow,"  said 
am  home, 

and  they 
the  next 

who  had 
neighbor- 
arbor  and 
so  large, 


id  Elijah, 


i 


G4 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 


CIIAPTKR  VII 
Andrew's  experience  on  the  osprey 

WHKN  Andrew  Field  had  8te])pcd  on  board  the 
yawl,  he  knew  that  any  resistance  on  his  part 
would  be  useless,  and  might  bring  serious  trouble 
not  only  upon  himself  but  upon  David.  Not  a  word 
was  spoken  by  any  one  as  the  yawl  was  pulled  back 
to  the  Osprey.  Andrew  stepped  on  deck  with  the 
boatswain,  who  touched  his  hat  and  spoke  to  a  man 
in  uniform  who  stood  watching  their  return. 

"I  've  brought  a  new  man,"  said  the  boatswain. 

The  lieutenant  smiled,  for  it  was  the  lieutenant  to 
whom  he  spake,  and  said:  "I  hope  he  came  willingly. 
The  King  has  a  good  place  for  able-bodied  young 
men." 

"No  sir,  1  did  n't  come  willingly,'-'  •eplied  Andrew. 
"I  live,  in  the  United  States,  and  the  King  of  Eng- 
iTahd  has  no  right  to  claim  my  services.  I  want  to 
see  the  captain." 

"You  want  to  see  the  captain,  do  you  ?  "  said  the 
lieutenant  with  a  laugh.  "Come  with  me,  and  I 
think  you  '11  see  him  soon  enough."  And  ho  led  the 
way  to  the  captain's  quarters.     He  left  Andrew  out- 


M) 


'HRY 

n  board  the 
!  on  his  part 
ions  trouble 
Not  a  word 
pulled  back 
ck  with  the 
ke  to  a  man 
rn. 

jatswain. 
ieutcnant  to 
le  willingly. 
)dicd  young 

led  Andrew. 

!ing  of  Eng- 

I  want  to 

? "  said  the 

me,   and  I 

d  ho  led  the 

Andrew  out- 


ANDREW'8  EXl'KHIENCE  ON  THE  OSPREY         65 

si.le,   and  stepped  within.      In  a  few  minutes  he 
opened  the  door  and  called  to  Andrew  to  enter. 

The  captain  was  a  large,  full-faced  man,  and  when 
he  looked  at  him,  Andrew's  heart  sank.  What 
could  he  hope  from  a  man  who  looked  as  savagely 
at  him  as  did  the  captain  of  the  Osprey  ? 

"Then  you  want  to  ship  aboard  the  Osprey,  do 
you  ?  "  said  the  captain,  in  a  voice  that  made  Andrew 
think  of  their  roaring  bull  at  home. 

"No,  sir,  I  don't,"  he  replied,  quietly.  "I  was 
fishing  with  my  brother  out  here  by  the  Rocks,  and 
your  men  made  me  come  on  board.  I  want  to  go 
home,  and  I  hope  you  'II  set  me  ashore  and  let  me 

go-" 

"  I  '11  let  you  go,"  growled  the  captain,  and,  raising 

his  great  fist,  he  struck  Andrew  two  heavy  blows  on 
either  side  of  his  head. 

Andrew  was  almost  stunned  by  the  blows,  and 

could  say  nothing. 

"Take  him  down  to  the  cook,"  ordered  the  captain, 
and  tell  him  i»  keep  him  there.  ||Too  much  day- 
light  wont  be  good  for  him  just  yet." 

°And  the  lieutenant  led  Andrew  away.  As  he 
passed  along  the  deck,  almost  stunned  as  he  was, 
he  yet  could  not  help  wondering  at  the  great  guns 
and  the  number  of  men  he  saw.  "What  do  they 
want  to  take  me  for  when  they  have  so  many  men 
already?"  thought  Andrew  bitterly,  as  he  followed 


I 


I 


66 


THE  SEAKCH   FOll   AN'DHKW  FIELD 


his  leader.  Tliey  dt-Hcended  into  the  galley,  r.nd  the 
lieutenant,  after  a  few  words  to  the  cook  spoken  so 
low  that  Andrew  could  not  hear  them,  left  him  and 
returned  to  the  deck. 

Andrew  looked  up  at  the  cook  as  the  lieutenant 
left.  He  was  a  short  thick-set  man,  Itut  the  expres- 
sion on  his  face  showed  him  to  Ijc  kind-hearted, 
and  the  look  lie  now  cast  on  Andrew  was  full  of 
sympathy.  lie  had  time  to  notice  that  he  had  lost 
one  leg  at  the  knee,  and  a  wooden  stump  had  taken 
its  place,  which  sounded  strangely  as  the  cook  moved 
about  the  galley. 

The  cook  was  the  first  to  break  the  silence.  "1 
know,  I  know  all  about  it.  Ye  need  n't  tell  mo  a 
word,"  said  he.  "It's  (juecr  business,  but  don't  ye 
give  up.  You  just  pitch  in  and  do  all  ye  can,  and 
wait.  The  cnp'n  Avonld  n't  thank  me  for  sayin'  this 
to  ye,  but  1  'm  g(»in'  to,  just  the  same.  I  know,  I 
know  all  about  it.  Ye  need  n't  say  a  word  to  me." 
And  he  rattled  his  dishes  and  made  a  great  show  of 
being  busy.  ^ 

"Now you  just  take  hold  here  and  help  me  a  little, 
and  you  '11  feel  better,"  he  added,  as  he  saw  how 
downcast  and  despondent  Andrew  appeared. 

Andrew  did  as  he  was  told,  and  in  a  little  while 
the  cook  had  drawn  from  him  his  entire  story.  lie 
only  interrupted  by  an  occasional  grunt,  and  then 
rattled  his  dishes  the  more.     "Bless  me!     Bless  nie! 


-1) 

cy,  f>iul  fhe 

spoken  bo 

sft  liiin  und 

lieutenant 
the  cxprcs- 
nd-lioiirted, 
wan  lull  of 
lie  had  lost 

had  taken 
cook  moved 

ilenoc. 

tell  me  a 
lut  don't  ye 
ye  can,  and 

sayin'  this 

I  know,  I 

ord  to  me. " 

eat  show  of 

me  a  little, 
»e  saw  how 

Ml. 

little  while 

story.     IIo 

t,  und  then 

Bless  nie ! 


ANDUKW'S  KXl'KUIKNTE  ON  TllK  OSI'UKY  67 
ye«,  yes,  1  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  he  Inter- 
iected  from  time  to  time. 

Andrew  did  not  see  just  how  the  cook  couM  know 
all  about  it,  but  his  kindly  sympathy  was  so  evident, 
that  he  felt  at  once  that  he  had  found  a  friend. 

"1  suppose  you'll  be  trving  to  get  ashore  pretty 
soon  V  "  asked  the  cook.  "  Yes,  yes,  1  know,  I  know 
all  about  it,"  he  said,  when  Andrew  rei.hed  by  a 
decided  nod  of  the  head. 

"Wc  had   a  younj?  fellow  come   aboard  out  by 
Nin.^ara,  something   like   you,"   he   added,    after   a 
.nament's  silence.     "  He  thought  ho  'd  go  ashore  one 
ni.ht.     1I(^  started,  but  I  don't  think  he  got  there; 
leastwise,  I  never  heard  he  did." 
"  Why  not  ?  "  inquired  Andrew. 
"  Shot,"  was  the  reply  of  the  cook. 
Andrew  started  to  make  another  inquiry,  but  the 
cook  broke  in  upon  him:    "Yes,    yes,    1  know,   I 
know  all  about  it.     But  1  want  to  give  ye  a  little 
advice.     Don't  ye  do  it.     They  'U  watch  ye  sharp 
for  a  time  anyway;  and  my  orders  is    or  ye   not 
to  leave  the  galley.     But  don't  give  up,    he  added 
,uietly,   as  he  saw  Andrew's  face  fall.     "He  P  U 
come,  only  ye  must  wait  a  spell.     I  guess  yourjolks 
won't  entirely  forgit  ye."  ,       ,    ,       ^ 

The  reference  to  his  father  made  Andrew  s  heart 
again  sink.  He  knew  how  ill  he  was,  and  how  little 
he  could  expect  from  David. 


es 


Tiir;  si;ai{('ii  fou  andukw  kikld 


"  I  Hhii'ii't  f(»i%nf  to  liflp  yo,"  lie  niMnl,  "  wlion  the 
rijrlit  liiiK-  poiucs.  I  iUm'\  wiisti'  nny  Invo  on  tlieso 
JiritisliciH,  though  1  do  cook  for  the  Ospi-cy. " 

"What  ure  you  doing  here,  then  ?"  asked  Andrew 
in  Hurpriso. 

"My  story  'h  a  lonj?  one.  Some  time  I  '11  tell  it  to 
you,  but  not  now,"  And  they  turned  to  their  work, 
the  cook  directing  Andrew  by  nn  occasiouiil  word. 
An(h-ew  could  hear  him  nuittering  to  hiniHel.'  at 
times,  "Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  and 
often  he  felt  his  kindly  ghince  resting  upon  him. 

Andrew  was  glad  to  have  found  a  friend;  and  he 
could  see  that  this  simple-hearted  man,  stinnping 
about  tl»e  galley,  and  busy  with  his  dishes,  would  l)c 
a  helper  to  him.  And  the  more  ho  thought  about  it 
the  more  was  he  convinced  that  the  cook  was  right. 
Andrew  was  very  certain  that  he  wanted  to  get  away, 
but  he  was  just  as  certain  that  he  did  not  want  to  be 
shot.  He  knew  orders  had  been  given  to  watch  him, 
and  that  for  a  time  he  must  appear  at  least  to  give 
in  to  the  life  he  would  be  compelled  to  lead  on  ship, 
board. 

Towards  night  the  lieutenant  made  his  appearance 
again,  to  make  inquiry  as  to  how  the  new  man  was 
getting  on. 

"We  Ml  give  you  something  to  do  on  deck  by  and 
by,"  he  said  as  he  departed,  pleased  with  the  report 
the  cook  gave  him  of  Andrew's  readiness. 


t  llll« 


.11 

"  when  the 
0  on  tliesc 

V." 

od  A  nil  re  wr 

11  tell  it  to 
their  work, 
oiml  Word. 
liiiiiHel,'   lit 
ut  it,"  and 
n  him. 
id ;   and  ho 
>   stumping 
s,  would  be 
ht  about  it 
was  right. 
)  get  away, 
want  to  be 
ivatch  him, 
ast  to  give 
d  on  shi))' 

appearance 
V  man  was 

jck  by  and 
the  report 


AXUUKWS   KXlKHir.XCK  «»N  TIIK  OSl'UKY 


09 


"  Ho  's  to  b»mk  with  you,  and  you  are  to  look  after 
l,i,„,"  he  railed  i)ut  in  a  suggestive  way  to  the  cook 
ua  he  disappeared. 

Andrew,  not  hop.de«s,  but   because  he   saw  that 
anything  else  was  us.'less,  appeare<l  to  give  in  to  h.s 
surroundings.     The  days  were  monotonous,  and  yet 
he  found  his  greatest  relief  in  keeping  busy.      Some- 
times he  knew  then!  were  storms,  but  he  never  ap- 
peared on  deck.     He  would  not  have  been  allowed  to 
go  there  if  he  had  wanted  to,  and  quietly  he  tr.ed  to 
make  the  best   of    it.     He   knew  the   ship  was  in 
motion,  but  of  her  destination  and  plans  he  was  ni 
entire  ignorance. 

Several  days  passed  in  this  way,  and  the  cook  and 
he  each  day  became  warmer  friends.  Andrew  nmde 
himself  useful,  and  his  services  were  appreciated  by 
his  friend.  He  was  a  peculiar  man,  with  a  nasal 
drawl  to  his  words  that  was  often  amusing. 

"I  think  you  must  have  lived  Down  East  some 
time,"  Andrew  said  to  him  one  day. 

«  Now  what  makes  you  think  that  ? "  asked  the  cook 
"You  talk  like  a  Yankee.     Some  of  'em  settled 

near  us."  .    .,       ,.   , 

uYes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,    replied 

his  friend.     "I've  heard  they  talk  through  their 

noses.     la  that  it?"  ,  ,.    • 

-I  guess  it  '8  because  they  do.'t  talk  through  their 

noses,"  replied  Andrew,  laughin'|. 


70 


THE  SEAUCII   FUH   ANDREW   FIELD 


"  Well,  I  did  live  Down  East ;  I  did  n't  think  you  'd 
:i  known  it,  though.  Ye  see  I  was  raised  in  Rhode 
Island,  righi;  near  to  Newport.  I  tell  ye,  Little 
Rhody 's  the  place  for  ye." 

"  What  made  you  leave  there  ?  "  said  Andrew,  with 
a  smile. 

"Well,  I  was  always  on  the  water,  ye  see,  I 
used  to  carry  fish  and  oysters  to  Providence.  The 
first  money  I  ever  made  was  A"!th  lolisters.  Then 
there  came  a  time  when  I  shipped  on  a  coaster. 
Them  was  great  days,"  he  added,  with  a  sigh.  "I 
used  to  be  home  every  two  months,  but  I  ain't  got 
any  home  now.  My  father  thought  he  'd  have  to  go 
with  General  Greene  when  he  went  South.  Ye  see 
he  used  to  run  a  blacksmi^i  shop  right  near  us.  But 
he  never  came  back.'"  0 

"Why  not?"  asked  Andrew  quietly. 

"Guilford  Court  House,"  was  the  short  reply. 
There  was  silence  for  a  minute,  and  then  he  went 
on :  "  My  mother  did  n't  live  long  after  that,  and 
now  everybody  's  gone.  Then  I  knocked  around  for 
a  while,  and  shipped  in  '97  on  the  Constellation. 
She  could  fight,  I  tell  ye,"  he  added,  with  a  look  of 
pride;  "she  could  just  rattle  those  frog-eating 
Frenchmen  every  time." 

"  The  Frenchmen  !  Why,  I  thought  they  were  our 
friends,"  said  Andrew. 

"O,  they  were  in  '77;  but  ye  see  after  that  things 


.ti^ 


.1) 

hink  )'ou  'd 

I  in  Rhode 

ye,  Little 

idrew,  with 

ye  sec.  I 
ence.  The 
era.  Then 
a  coaster. 
,  sigh.  "I 
I  ain't  got 
have  to  go 
h.  Ye  see 
3,1'  us.    But 


lort  reply, 
m  he  went 
*  that,  and 
around  for 
istellation. 
h  a  look  of 
frog-eating 

iy  were  our 

that  things 


ANDREWS  EXPERIKNCE  ON  THE  OSPREY 


71 


,.ot  worse.     There  was  a  .ew  mean  men  got  the  grip 
on    he  French  government,  and  they  was  out  with 
^eUy  J.1  the' whole  world      They 'd  fight  every 
bods  unless  they  'd  pay  'em  to  stop  fighting, 
"'l  did  n't  know  they  bothered  us. 
«0    yes"  laughed  the   cook.     "They  set  their 
«hins'on  to'take  our  cargoes  and  sometimes  our  mei. 
Th  V  Ised  a  lot  o'  laws  so  we  could  n't  trade  much 
^^ICL  then  they  turned  our  Minister  onto' 

''t^:TZ^  heard   of   that,"  said   Andrew. 

"What  did  we  do  about  it?"  „;„i.ters 

«  Well,  the  President  sent  some  special  mm,.lers 
over  the  e,  and  they  didn't  .care  very  easy      The 
ranchers  thought  -.hey  would  P^J  .'^^  1  „U 
„„v  tor  them  to  f.uit  bothering  us,  out  our  mm.B- 
rellld  th*  "  'r,,,;nd  n,il!iona  for  defence,  not  one 

"tiv^ttrd'of  that,  hut  I  didn't  know  when  it 

-"--."-r'jJiiXannorr.cS: 

all  the  treatrea  we  Inl  w,th  her.  ^  ^^   .,, 

get  together  an  army,  and  put  Wa  h 
head;  and  they  give  out_  orders  ter 
French  vessels  we  could." 

»  When  was  all  this  !  "  asked  Andrew. 

ZZ,"  replied  the  cook.     "The  biggest  fight 


r 


72 


THE  SEAKCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


was  when  tlie  Constellation  whipped  the  L'lusur- 
gento  off  St.  Kitt's,  in  the  West  Indies.  That's 
where  I  left  my  leg,"  added  the  cook,  pointing  with 
a  smile  to  his  wooden  stump. 

"  Did  you  take  her  ? "  asked  Andrew. 

"  Take  her !  Wall,  I  guess  we  did.  It  was  just  at 
that  time  that  'Hail  Columbia!'  came  out,  and  ye 
ought  to  have  heard  us  sing  it,"  and  the  cook  forgot 
where  he  was.  "  Did  ye  ever  hear  it  ?  "  he  asked 
Andrew;  and,  without  waiting  for  his  reply,  he  be- 
gan to  sing  as  loudly  as  he  could  the  old  battle  hymn. 
"  We  'd  had  some  more  times  there,  only  the  next 
year  Bonaparte  stepped  up  and  offered  good  terms  of 
peace  and  we  took  'em.  But  where  are  we  now  ?  " 
And  the  cook  disappeared  for  a  minute,  and  said, 
when  he  returned,  "  We  're  at  Oswego.  Ever  been 
here  ?  " 

"No,"  replied  Andrew.  He  knew  they  were  at 
the  dock  now.  He  stepped  to  the  scuttle  hole  and 
looked  out;  he  started  back  with  a  sharp  exclama- 
tion. Out  on  the  river  he  saw  a  little  cat-rigged 
boat  sailing  by,  and  in  it  were  David  his  brother, 
and  Elijah  and  Henry  Spicer. 


ii 


[I 


■■MiMiiiiiJitiniiiiiW.i  «iiMWjii.wnfoaiwlastMC!u«»!»?f 


n 


L'lusur- 

That  '8 

ting  with 


as  just  at 
t,  and  ye 
ok  forgot 
he  asked 
y ,  he  be- 
-le  hymn, 
the  next 
terms  of 
e  now  ?  " 
nd  said, 
ver  been 

were  at 

hole  and 

3xc]ama- 

it-rigged 

brother. 


BAFFLED  AGAIN 


73 


CHAPTER  VIII 


BAFFLED   AGAIN 


SCARCELY  had  David  uttered  his  exclamation 
of  surprise  at  seeing  the  Osprey  already  at 
Oswego,  when  there  rose  from  the  ship  the  call  of 
a  crow.  Three  times  it  was  given,  and  David  could 
not  tell  just  where  it  came  from. 

"That's  Andrew,"  he  said,  excitedly,  and  from 
the  little  Pilot  there  arose  the  response.  But  no 
further  call  came  from  the  Osprey. 

"I  know  that  was  Andrew,"  said  David;  "that 's 
our  call,  surely.  But  we  can't  go  aboard  the  Osprey 
and  take  him  ofP.     What's  the  best  thing  to  do 

now?" 

"I  should  say  take  your  lette:-  and  go  straight  to 
the  fort.  You  want  to  act  while  the  Osprey  is  here ; 
i>nd  the  sooner  we  can  get  to  the  fort  the  better," 

said  Elijah. 

"That's  so,'^  said  David;  "and  we  'U  keep  right 
on  a  little  farther  up  the  river.  I  don't  want  the 
Osprey's  boatswain  to  see  me." 

"  Henry  and  I  '11  go  up  to  the  fort,  and  you  stay 
here,"  said  David  to  Elijah. 


74 


THE  SEARCH  FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 


"All  right,"  replied  Elijah.  "I  don't  want  you 
gone  long,  though." 

"  We  sha'n't  be  any  longer  than  we  can  helj),  you 
may  be  sure  of  that,"  replied  David,  as  he  changed 
his  course  and  drew  in  towards  shore  at  a  quiet  spot 
beyond  the  docks. 

David  and  Henry  started  on  the  run  towards  the 
fort.  But  here  a  great  disappointment  came  to 
them ;  when  they  arrived  there  they  found  the  com- 
mander could  not  be  seen.  Just  how  long  they 
would  have  to  wait  they  could  not  learn,  but  wait 
they  must;  so,  with  the  best  grace  possible,  they 
wandered  about  the  grounds  and  down  the  street 
outside. 

"That  funny  old  fellow  over  there  seems  to  l)e 
watching  us,"  said  Henry,  pointing  to  the  other  side 
of  the  street,  where  a  queer-looking  little  fat  man 
with  a  wooden  leg  was  stumping  along. 

"That's  so.  I  wonder  what  he  wants,"  said 
David,  as  the  stranger  beckoned  for  them  to  wait 
for  him  as  he  crossed  over  to  where  they  were. 

"Come,  boys,  take  in  sail,"  he  said,  as  he  came 

near. 

Both  boys  waited  in  silence  for  him  to  approach, 
wondering  what  he  could  want  of  them.  "He  looks 
and  talks  like  a  sailor,"  said  Henry  to  David. . 

"And  so  I  am,  or  was,  rather,"  said  the  stranger 
as  he  stopped,  "before  I  lost  this  leg  and  was  afore 


ii 


BAFFLED  AGAIN 


75 


int  you 

?lp,  you 
jhanged 
liet  spot 

irds  the 
same  to 
he  com- 
ng  they 
)ut  wait 
le,  they 
e  street 

IS  to  be 
her  side 
fat  man 

},"    said 
to  wait 
•e. 
he  came 

pproach, 
He  looks 
id.. 

stranger 
!&»  afore 


the  mast.     Now  I  'm  only  a  cook,  and  on  a  Brit- 
i8h  boat  at  that.     What  do  ye  think  o'that?"  he 

asked. 

Both  boys  were  all  attention  now,  and  listening. 
"I   think   one   o'   ye 's  named   Field,"  said  the 

sailor,  quizzically. 

«  Yes,  my  name  's  Field,  -David  Field,"  replied 

the  owner  of  that  name. 

"Yos,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  said  the 

cook. 

"Know  all  about  what?"  asked  David,  eagerly. 

"Not  so  fast,  my  hearty.  Take  a  reef;  bare 
poles  is  enough  now.  But  I  guess  je  know  Andrew 
Field,  then,  if  your  name's  David." 

"Yea,  1  do.  He's  my  brother,  and  he's  on  the 
Osprey'uow.  Been  pressed;  and  I've  followed  her 
here  and  have  got  a  letter  to  the  fort  to  see  if  I  can't 
get  lim  back  again.  Do  you  know  him  ?  Are  you 
froi.1  the  Ospi'ey  ?  " 

And  the  questions  oamo  so  rapidly  from  David 
that  the  cook  laughed  and  said:  "Not  so  fast, 
r  .t  so  fast.  Andiew  thought  he  saw  ye,  and  he 
give  those  caws,  and  if  I  hadn't  clapped  my  hand 
over  his  mouth  I  gue.^s  he'd  a  had  .he  whole  crew 
after  him.     But  as  it  was,  no  daraagt  was  done. " 

"Well,   how  is  he?    Is  he    all  right?"    asked 
David,  impatiently. 

"0    he's  all  right.     He 'swilling  enough,  but  I 


iWiiTiiironinifiipii'irrTiiwmw'  ^mmf: 


76 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


don't  think  he  '11  ever  make  much  of   a  cook ;  lie 
doesn't  seem  to  take  to  it." 

"Is  he  cook,  then?"  asked  David. 

"Cook!  Well,  I  guess  not.  I'm  the  cook; 
Andrew  is  first  lieutenant." 

"  First  lieutenant  ?     What  do  yo\i  mean  ?  " 

"First  lieutenant  to  the  cook,"  replied  the 
stranf^er. 

"Well,  we  want  to  gtt  him  off  if  we  can.  I  've 
got  a  letter  from  Colonel  Bettinger  at  Sackett's 
Harbor  for  the  commander  of  the  fort  here,  and  one 
to  Captain  Snaith." 

"The  one  to  Cap'n  Snaith  won't  do  ye  any  good; 
and  I  don't  much  believe  the  other  will  either. 
Howsomever,  yon  'd  better  try  it.  But  if  it  docs  n't 
work,  I  shouldn't  wonder  but,  if  to-night  was  a 
dark  night,  ye  might  get  a  passenger,  if  he  know  'd 
where  to  find  ye." 

"Will  you  help  him  off?"  said  David  eagerly. 
"We  are  down  here  below  the  dock,  and  we  '11  wait 
all  night  there." 

"Pretty  risky  for  me;  but  I  know,  I  know  all 
about  it,"  said  the  cook.  "You'd  better  try  yer 
letter  to  the  fort  first,  and  then,  if  that  don't  go, 
why,  mebbe  —  mind,  1  say  mebbe  —  I  can  help  him 
off  to-night ;  and  if  you  should  find  him,  1  presume 
you  'd  take  him  home,  would  n't  ye  ?  " 

"Take  him  home !    Well,  I  should  think  we  would. 


BAFFLED  AGAIN 


77 


ok ;  lie 


cook; 


?d     the 

.  I've 
ackott's 
md  one 

y  good ; 
cither, 
doesn't 
;  was  a 
know  'd 

eagerly. 
'11  wait 

now  all 
try  yer 
cn't  go, 
elp  him 
presume 

3  would. 


That 's  what  we  came  for.  Thank  you ;  thank  you 
for  your  help,  Mr, ?  " 

"Cook.     I'm  the  cook." 

"Thank  you,  Mr.  Cook,"  oaid  David. 

The  cook  chuckled  and  said :  "  Cook  's  as  good  as 
anything,  I  guess.  Well,  I  must  go  back  on  board. 
Andrew's  probably   gettin'   lonesome-like   by   this 

time." 

"Tell  him  we're  here,  and  going  to  help  him," 
said  David.     "  Was  n't  he  surprised  to  see  us  ?  " 

"  Surprised  ?  Why,  he  would  n't  believe  his  eyes. 
Howsomever,  don't  stop  to  talk  any  more.  You  go 
up  to  the  fort.  But  if  you  don't  get  what  you  want, 
you  'd  better  not  sleep  too  hard  in  yer  boat  to-night." 
The  cook  started  down  the  street,  his  wooden  leg 
striking  the  ground  with  a  double  emphasis  as  he 
walked.  The  boys  turned  to  wave  their  hands  before 
the    started  back  for  the  fort. 

"Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  he 
called  out,  as  he  disappeared  around  the  corner. 

The  boys  returned  to  the  fort  and  learned  that  they 
could  se«:ure  an  audience  now  with  the  commander. 

They  found  him  a  silent  man,  grave  and  courteous. 
"  What  can  I  do  for  you,  boys  ?  "  he  said,  kindly,  as 
they  were  brought  before  him. 

"I  've  a  letter  for  you,"  replied  David,  handing  to 
him  the  note  which  Colonel  Bettinger  had  written 
for  him. 


78 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


The  commander  took  the  letter,  and,  breaking  the 
seal,  began  to  read.  He  read  it  through  the  second 
time  before  he  made  any  reply ;  then,  looking  up  at 
the  boys,  he  held  the  letter  thoughtfully  in  his  hand 
and  said :  — 

"This  is  the  third  case  like  this  that  has  come  to 
my  notice  within  the  past  week.  The  trouble  is 
that  these  English  war  vessels  won't  allow  any 
search;  and  they  always  deny  any  knowledge  of 
the  facts.  They  always  say  they  have  only  British 
subjects.  'Once  a  Briton  always  a  Briton,'  you 
know,  is  their  motto." 

"Yes,  that's  what  they  said  at  Kingston,"  an- 
swered David. 

"Have  you  been  to  Kingston  about  this?"  asked 
the  commander. 

"Yes,  we  went  there  first,  for  we  thought  the 
Osprey  was  bound  there. " 

"She's  here  now,"  said  the  coromandejs.  "But 
do  you  know  surely  that  your  brother  is  on  board  of 
her  ?    He  may  have  escaped." 

"No,  he  's  there,"  said  David,  and  he  related  what 
had  occurred  since  they  came  to  Oswego. 

"  It 's  bad  work.  1  'm  not  at  dl  sure  I  can  help 
you  any;  but  1  can  give  you  or  send  a  letter  to 
Captain  Snaith." 

"I  have  one  for  him  from  Colonel  Bettinger,  too," 

said  David. 


S      ^ 


BAFFLED  AGAIN 


79 


ing  the 

second 

g  up  at 

is  hand 

come  to 
uble  is 
ow  any 
edge  of 
British 
n,'  you 


•n,"  an- 


"  asked 

ght  the 

.     "But 
board  of 

ted  what 

can  help 
letter  to 

;er,  too," 


"I'm  afraid  neither  will  be  of  any  great  service 
to  yon,"  Siiid  the  commander,  smiling.  "If  he 
denies  any  knowledge  of  it,  why  there  's  nothing  we 
can  do  more. " 

David  was  prompted  to  a  bold  stroke.  Boys  were 
always  to  bo  careful  in  those  days  when  they  ad- 
dressed their  elders;  and,  besides,  he  stood  in  great 
awe  of  the  kind-looking  commander,  who  sat  before 
him.  He  twirled  his  hat  in  his  hand  a  moment,  and 
then  said,  with  a  flush  of  his  face,  "  If  they  are  strong 
enough  to  take  our  men  away  from  us  when  they 
don't  want  to  go,  1  don't  see  why  we  ain't  strong 
enough  to  take  them  back  again.  You  have  lots  of 
soldiers  here." 

"You  don't  understand,  my  boy,"  said  the  com- 
mander, smiling  kindly  at  David,  abashed  now  at 
his  own  boldness.  "  We  did  make  a  brave  stand  for 
our  liberty;  but  the  English  name  is  still  a  terror 
with  mai^,  and  their  navy,  you  know,  is  the  best  in 
the  world.  I  don't  know  that  we  could  take  our 
men  by  force  back  again ;  and  yet  you  may  live  to 
see  the  time  when  you  and  others  will  be  given  a 
chance  to  try." 

"  I  'm  trying  now,"  said  David. 

"  Yes,  I  know  you  are ;  but  it  looks  as  if  we  must 

try  titles  with  England  again.     These  outrages  ate 

increasing,  and  are  growing  worse  because  we  have 

as  yet  done  nothing.     But  1  '11  give  you  a  note  to 


80 


TIIK  SKAKCH   FOR   ANI)"KW  FIKLD 


!. 


the  Captain.  Or,  8tay,  I  '11  pivo  it  to  one  of  our  nion 
and  he  can  take  it;  it  may  be  better  for  yon  not  to 
jro  aboard  the  Osprey." 

He  wrote  a  letter  and  sent  for  one  of  his  men. 
The  boys  thanked  the  commander,  and,  bowing  low, 
left  his   presence  with  the   man   he  had   detailed. 
When  they  were  outside  the  fort  the  sun  was  setting. 
David  turned  to  the  soldier,  and  said,   "  We  Ml  go 
with  you  down  to  pretty  near  the  dock,  if  you  don't 
object,  and  we  '11  wait  for  you  there.     We  may  get  a 
peep  at  Andrew. "     Then  he  said  to  Henry,  "  Perhp.ps 
you  'd  better  go  back  to  the  Pilot.     We  've  been  fjonc 
80  long  Elijah  jvon't  know  where  we  are,  and  he  may 
be  wondering  wliat  has  become  of  us.     1  'U  be  there 

pretty  soon." 

"All  right,"  replied  Henry,  and  he  started  on  the 
run  toward   the  place  where    Elijah   and   the  Pilot 

were. 

David  kept  on  with  the  soldier  down  the  quaint 
streets  of  the  old  town.  On  almost  any  other  occa- 
sion he  would  have  been  glad  to  stop  and  examine 
the  storehouses  and  great  lumber-yards  he  saw ;  but 
now  other  things  were  in  his  mind,  and  night  was 


■^^l  coming   on.     Silently  they  pasaed  along  the  streets 


'till  they  came  to  the  river,  and  then  they  followed 
the  docks  along  the  river  side. 

"You  know  where  the  Osprey  is,   don't  you?" 
said  the  soldier. 


d  on  the 
;he  Pilot 

le  quaint 
ler  occa- 

examine 
saw;  but 
light  was 
le  streets 

followed 


1 


BAFFLED  AGAIN 


81 


)tir  uiou 
1  not  to 

is  men. 
ng  low, 
Ictailed. 
setting, 
^e'll  go 
m  don't 
lay  get  a 
Perhaps 
een  fjonc 
1  he  may 
be  there 


"She  was  right  hero  this  morning,"  said  David; 
"but  she  is  n't  here  now." 

They  stopped  to  inquire  of  a  man  who  was  work- 
ing upon  the  docks. 

"  The  Oaprey  ? "  said  he.  "  0  yes,  she  sailed  from 
here  about  two  hours  ago. " 


't  you 


82 


TlIK  SEAUCII   FOR  ANDKKW   FIELD 


CIIAPTKR  IX 


ANOTHKH   VOVA(iK   llEOUN 

DAVID  slowly  walked  buck  to  the  place  where 
the  boyp  and  the  Pilot  were  waiting  for  him. 
Hut  few  word«  ..re  spoken,  for  David  w..8  so  keenly 
disappointed  that  he  had  little  inclination  to  talk 
He  found  the  boys  waiting  and  wondering  what  Lad 

become  of  him.  ,,  xt    ♦ 

It  took  but  a  few  minutes  for  him  to  relate  all  that 

had  (    i'ullen  since  they  had  left  Elijah. 

..I.  "s  all  the  harder  to  get  so  close  to  Andrew, 

and  then  lose  him,"  said  David.  .,  ^,..  . 

"Never  mind,  we'll  get  him  yet,"  said  Elijah, 

encouragingly.     "But  we  must  decide  what  we  will 

do  now."  .  ,  ^   .f    „  „„„ 

« I  think  we  'd  better  find  out  to-night,  if  wc  can, 

where  the  Osprey  is  going.    It  may  not  be  of  any  use 

to  follow  her  now."  _  . 

"Well,  you  wait  here,"  said  Elijah.  «I  want  to 
take  a  little  run.  1  'U  feel  better  for  it.  And  1 
think  I  can  find  out  about  it,  too." 

So  Elijah  left  the  boys,  and  btarted  out  alone.  He 
was  gone  only  about  an  hour,  and  returned  to  find 


mmm 


tmms4iSmMM 


ice  where 
for  him. 
so  keenly 
n  to  talk, 
what  l.ad 

te  all  that 

)  Andrew, 

lid  Elijah, 
lat  we  will 

if  we  can, 
!  of  any  use 

"I  want  to 
it.     And  1 

alone.     He 
i*ned  to  find 


! 


V 


e 


/a 


^     ■>'v 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


1.0 


I.I 


I  m  110 


1.8 


IL25  III  1.4    III  1.6 


PhotDgraphic 

Sciences 

Corporation 


23  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WE&STER,N.Y.  14580 

(716)  872-4503 


^/        v*/^ 


CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


k^ 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  Microreproductions  /  Institut  Canadian  de  microreproductions  historiques 


ANOTHEU  VOYAGE  BKGUN 


83 


them  sittiiig  silently  in  the  Pilot,  surprised  to  have 
him  back  so  soon. 

"  What  did  you  hear,  Elijah  ?  "  asked  Henry. 
"They  told  me  down  by  the  dock  that  the  Osprey 
was  going  down  among  the  islands,  and  then  after  a 
time  would  probably  go  to  Kingston.  Nobody  seemed 
to  know  much  about  her,  anyway;  but  two  men  told 
me  this,  and  I  'm  afraid  it 's  true." 

"  Well,  we  '11  all  sleep  in  the  cabin  to-night.  Tt  's 
close  quarters,  but  it 's  the  best  we  can  do,  1  guess. 
We  sha'n't  have  to  have  any  guard  to-night.  Here 
in  Oswego  nobody '11  touch  us." 

"No,  but  I  think  we'd  better  drop  out  a  little 
from  the  shore  and  anchor,"  said  Elijah.  "It's  a 
clear  night,  and  no  one  will  run  into  us." 

The  boys  approved  the  suggestion,  and  in  a  few 
minutes  the  Pilot  was  safely  anchored  about  twenty 
feet  from  the  shore,  and  the  boys  had  wrapped  them- 
selves in  their  heavy  blankets,  and  were  soon  fast 
asleep.  So  long  and  soundly  did  they  sleep  that  it 
was  late  when  they  awoke  in  the  morning. 

Some  of  David's  despondency  was  gone  with  the 
morning- light,  and  yet  he  was  far  from  cheerful. 
"What  a  report  to  take  home!"  said  he.  "It's 
worse  than  Kingston,"  he  added.  "  You  see,  we  've 
seen  Andrew,  and  yet  did  n't  get  him." 

"Yes,  but  you  know  where  ha  is,  and  that  he's 
all  right,"  replied  Elijah. 


^gtta^fimMjkwMmi  nm 


/■ 


84 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


^^ 


"That 's  so,"  said  David,  brightening.  "That  '11 
be  some  comfort ;  but  I  guess  wc  'd  better  start  for 
home. " 

"  Wc  can  stop  there,  but  I  'm  for  going  on  further. 
Andrew  knows  we  are  following  him,  and  if  we  get 
u  good  dark  night,  he  can  get  away,  1  'm  sure,"  said 
Elijah. 

"It 's  time  we  started,"  said  David,  after  they  had 
finished  their  breakfast. 

Henry  had  secured  some  milk  and  bread  while 
David  and  Elijah  had  been  talking,  and  this  had 
given  an  added  relish  to  the  food  they  had  brought, 
which  was  somewhat  dry  by  this  time. 

They  raised  their  anchor,  and  with  a  strong  favor- 
ing wind  were  soon  out  on  the  lake.  They  watched 
for  the  Osprey,  but  not  a  sight  of  her  could  they  se- 
cure. At  night  they  repeated  their  former  experience 
of  camping.  The  wind  was  with  them  all  the  way, 
and  at  the  close  of  the  second  day  they  were  once 
more  in  sight  of  home. 

"  I  think  we  'd  better  leave  everything  in  the  boat," 
said  Elijah.  "Henry  and  I'll  go  right  up  to  our 
house,  and  you  go  to  yours.  We  '11  be  over  pretty 
soon,  and  I  think  we  'd  better  go  on  again.  I  guess 
father  won't  object.  We  've  had  pretty  good  luck  on 
this  trip,  even  if  we  didn't  get  Andrew  away,"  he 
added. 

The  surprise  that  met  David  as  he  entered  his 


M6i^ 


• .^^^.^^-^^•■w...-..^^  --^^'irnfiiiri'ti'  I  rtiriiiifcli 


iikiMi»v\ 


f 


"That'll 
!!•  start  for 

on  further, 
d  if  we  get 
sure,"  said 

2r  they  had 

•ead  while 
d  this  had 
id  brought, 

rong  favor- 
ey  watched 
lid  they  se- 
experience 
,11  the  way, 
were  once 

1  the  boat," 
up  to  our 
over  pretty 
1.  I  guess 
iod  luck  on 
away, "  he 

mtered  his 


ANOTHEU  VOYAGE  BEGUN 


85 


father's  liouso  was  on  the  faces  of  all.  His  father, 
wrapped  in  a  light  blanket,  was  sitting  by  the  win- 
dow, and  near  him  was  the  old  minister.  His 
mother  was  busy  in  the  kitchen. 

"David's  here,"  said  his  mother,  as  she  brought 
him  in  to  his  father.  - 

His  father  turned  to  greet  him,  but  the  question 
that  was  in  his  heart  to  ask,  his  quivering  lips  would 
not  permit  hiiii  to  utter. 

"We  found  Andrew,"  said  David.  "At  least  we 
heard  him,  and  heard  more  of  him,"  and  he  then 
told  the  story  of  their  travels.  He  talked  far  into 
the  evening.  The  morrow  was  Sunday,  and  these 
pioneer  people  began  their  observances  of  the  day  on 
the  evening  before. 

Services  were  to  be  held  at  David's  house  the  next 
day,  and  preparations  were  to  be  made  on  this  even- 
ing. David  helped  his  mother,  and  then  went  up 
into  his  little  room  in  the  attic. 

"It  seems  good  to  sleep  in  one's  own  bed  again," 
thought  David;  "though  I  rather  liked  that  camping 
out  on  the  shore. "  He  did  not  take  much  time  for 
thinking,  howevei*,  and  was  soon  fast  asleep. 

All  the  Spicers  and  the  other  neighbors  were  pres- 
ent at  the  services  on  the  following  day,  but  no  dis- 
cussion of  the  trip  of  the  boys  was  then  held.  T!ie 
day  was  a  serious  one  to  these  descendants  of  the 
Puritans,  and  even  David  and  Elijah  found  no  oppor- 
tunity for  conversation. 


J 


aWUBtMlwi 


y 


r 


■'ft 


ge  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

But  Monday  morning  brought  a  conference.  Elijah 
and  Henry,  with  their  father,  were  early  at  the  house 
of  the  Fields,  and  the  plans  of  the  boys  were  talked 

over. 

"I  think  the  boys  have  done  well,"  said  the  old 
preacher.  "They've  found  out  that  Andrew  is 
unharmed,  and  that 's  a  great  deal.  Oswego  must  be 
a  great  place,"  added  he.  "I've  never  been  there." 
"0,  it  is,"  said  Elijah,  enthusiastically.  "Such 
a  lot  of  boats  and  men  I  never  saw  before." 

«It  was  quite  a  centre  of  action  during  the  war  of 
the  Revolution,  "said  Mr.  Dodd.  "  1  remember  hear- 
ing how  General  Burgoyne  sent  Colonel  St.  Lcger 
with  a  large  body  of  men  from  Montreal  up  the  St. 
Lawrence  and  the  lake  to  Oswego.  Their  plan  was 
to  attack  Fort  Schuyler."  .      ,     .      „ 

"That's  a  good  ways  from  the  lake,  isn't  it? 

said  David. 

"Yes,  about  seventy-five  miles.  It  used  to  be 
called  Fort  Stanwix  in  the  French  and  Indian  war. 
But  their  plan  was  to  take  their  cannon  and  supplies 
by  water  up  the  Oswego  River,  and  through  Oneida 
Lake,  and  that  would  bring  them  almost  to  the  fort. 
When  they  had  captured  that,  they  were  going  to 
drag  the  boats  over  to  the  Mohawk,  and  go  down  by 
water  to  Albany. " 

"Didn't  Colonel  St.  Leger  have  some  good  men 

with  him?" 


^^Um^ 


lBWia?ii 


D 

ee.  Elijah 
t  the  house 
rcre  talked 

lid  the  old 
Andrew   is 
igo  must  be 
sen  there. " 
ly.     "  Such 

;  the  war  of 
ember  hear- 
1  St.  Leger 
1  up  the  St. 
>ir  plan  was 

isn't  it?" 

used  to  be 
Indian  war. 
and  supplies 
ough  Oneida 
t  to  the  fort, 
ere  going  to 
i  go  down  by 

[lie  good  men 


AXOTIIKH   VOYAGK  IJKOrN 


h: 


"  Yes,  he  was  joined  by  some  brave  men,  and  some 
who  were  very  cruel.  Tberc  was  a  Sir  John  John- 
son, who  lived  down  in  the  Mohawk  Valley.  Ho 
had  fled  to  Canada,  and  he  had  raised  a  regiment 
of  Canadians  and  Tories,  who  had  gone  over  there 
too.  They  were  called  'Johnson  Greens,'  because 
they  wore  coats  trimmed  with  green.  Then  there 
was  a  Colonel  John  Butler,  who  also  lived  in  the 
Mohawk  Valley,  and  he  raised  a  regiment  of  Tories 

too." 

"I  thought  he  had  some  Indiana,"  added  Elijah. 
"Yes,  he  did  have  some,"  replied  the  preacher. 
"There  was  an  Indian  whose   name   was   Thaycn- 
dancgca.     That  meant  '  Bundle  of  Sticks,'  in  Eng- 
lish," he  added,  with  a  laugh,  as  he  saw  a  puzzled 
look  on  the  boys'   faces.      "He  had  been  taught 
by  a  Rev.  Mr.  Wheelock,  at  Lebanon,  Connecticut. 
He  was  the  man  who  started  Dartmouth  College. 
Bundle   of    Sticks    could    speak    English,    and   he 
had  been  over  to  England.     He  was  the  interpreter 
for   Mr.    Kirkland,   who  was   a  missionary  to  the 
Indians.      He  and  some  other  chiefs  brought  a  large 
number  of  warriors." 

"  I  should  n't  have  thought  he  would  have  fought 
the  Americans,"  said  David. 

"  The  English  prejudiced  him.  They  told  him  how 
the  'Boston  men,'  which  was  the  name  by  which  our 
colonists  were  known  by   the  Indians  hereabouts, 


88 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


were  trying  to  take  their  country  away  from  tlicni. 
In  one  sense  of  tlio  word,  Bundle  of  Sticks  was  a 

patriot." 

"  Well,  Colonel  St.  Lcgcr  did  n't  do  much,  I  have 

heard,"  said  David. 

"No;  the  Indians  became  frightened,  and  after 
the  battle  of  Oriskany  he  found  he  had  but  a  small 
force  left." 

But  David's  mother  was  imi)aticnt.  She  wanted 
to  talk  over  the  plan  David  had  proposed  of  going 
down  among  the  Thousand  Islands,  and  see  if  they 
could  not  assist  Andrew  there  in  getting  away  from 

the  Osprcy. 

"The  boys  have  done  so  well  on  this  trip,"  said 
Mr.  Spiccr,  who  had  been  waiting,  not  wishing  to 
interrupt  Mr.  Dodd,  "that  I  think  it  would  be  well 
for  them  to  take  a  trip  down  there.  It 's  a  good  time 
of  the  year;  there  will  be  no  severe  storms,  and  while 
we  need  them  at  home,  we  need  Andrew  more." 

"That's  the  border  line  now,  along  the  St.  Law- 
rence, and  there  will  be  more  danger  from  the  smug- 
glers and  the  Canadians  than  anywhere  else,"  said 
Mr.  Field,  who  up  to  this  time  had  taken  no  part  in 
the  conversation. 

"Yes,  I  know,"  said  Mr.  Spicer,  "but  the  Osprey 
will  land  at  several  places  surely.  There  '«  Cape 
Vincent,  and  Clayton,  and  Gananoque,  and  perhaps 
she  '11  go  down  to  Brockville.     The  boys  can  keep 


»,, 


ANOTHER  VOYACJE  BEGUN 


B9 


im  tlicni. 
ks  was  a 

h,  I  have 

and  after 
t  a  small 

le  wanted 
I  of  going 
ce  if  they 
iway  from 

;rip,"  said 
irishing  to 
Id  be  well 
good  time 
and  while 
more. " 
c  St.  Law- 
the  smug- 
else,"  said 
no  part  in 

the  Osprey 
)re  '«  Cape 
id  perhaps 
s  can  keep 


near  the  American  shore,  and  I  think  the  tri^p  will 
h,,p  to  make  men  of  them.      We  shall  need   men 

"""  But  if  we  lose  our  boys  we  sha'u't  have  any  men," 
said  David's  mother.  /     ^^ 

"  It  '8  to  get  our  boys  back  we  arc  working,     said    ■ 

Mr.  Spicer,  gently.  , ,    .    . 

It  was  decided  that  the  boys  should  start  again. 
Mr.  Spicer,  who  had  often  been  down  the  St.  Law- 
rencc,  even  as  far  as  Montreal,  gave  them  minute 
instructions.  He  had  friends  who  had  settled  along 
the  St.  Lawrence  at  the  same  time  that  he  had  chosen 
his  home  by  Lake  Ontario,  and  he  told  the  boys 
where  they  were,  and  how  they  were  to  tind  them. 

AH  day  they  were  busy  getting  the  boys  ready 
for  this, -a  longer  journey.  David's  mother  was 
preparing  a  large  quantity  of  food,  which  they  cou  d 
take  with  them.  The  boys  were  getting  their  old 
flint-locks  ready,  and  helping  some  around  David  s 
home  before  they  started.  Mr.  Dodd  had  consented 
to  remain  and  look  after  the  chores  until  the  boys 
should  return,  and  the  day  was  a  busy  one 

But  the  next  morning,  with  the  litt  .Mot  well 
fitted  out,  and  with  provisions  and  gunfc  and  axes 
on  board,  and  fishing  tackle  and  tents  ready,  they 
thought  her  equipped  for  a  cruise  that  might   last 

W66KS* 

The  experience  the  boys  had  already  had,  and  the 


Vl^iWAS^-'^W*^^"^'^''  ^ 


90 


THP:   SKAIU'II    FOR   AXDKKW    I'lKM) 


hope  of  now  helping  Anilrcw  to  cseapo  from  tlio 
Osprcy,  lilloil  thcnj  with  eiigt'i-noss,  und  they  coukl 
hardly  wait  for  tiic  tinio  of  starting  to  come. 

But  at  last  all  things  were  ready,  the  good  by 
was  said,  the  little  boat  was  cast  off  from  the  dock, 
and,  the  sails  filling,  they  started  on  their  new 
voyage,  now  going  in  a  direction  opposite  to  the  one 
they  had  taken  before. 


^ 


"*^    -'       . 


lull 


rom    lilt; 
ey  coultl 

good  by 

he  dock, 

leir  new 

the  one 


VISITING 


91 


CHAPTER   X 


VlSlTfNO 


THE  boys  had  a  boautil'iil  day,  and  with  favoring 
winds  tb(!y  met  with  no  obstacles.  At  noon 
they  ate  their  lunch,  but  the  Pilot  steadily  kept  on 
her  course. 

"  What  are  you  going  to  do  for  the  night  ?  "  asked 
Elijah.  "Do  you  think  we  had  better  camp  out  or 
put  up  at  a  farmhouse  ?  We  have  n't  had  very  good 
luck,  so  far,  stopping  at  farmhouses." 

"That's  so,"  replied  David;  "but  my  father  has 
friends  not  far  from  here  and  I  think  we  'd  better  try 
to  see  them  any  way.  That 's  as  far  as  I  ever  have 
been  down  the  lake,  and  I  should  like  to  ask  some 
questions  about  the  way.  I  don't  think  we  can  get 
lost;  still,  I  'd  like  to  find  out  some  things." 

"Well,  I  hope  we  shall  get  there  before  dark, 
then,"  said  Elijah.  "I'd  rather  stay  in  the  Pilot 
than  take  any  chances." 

David  looked  at  the  sun.  It  was  already  getting 
low,  and  he  did  not  enjoy  the  prospect  of  any  more 
night  adventures. 


iiiiMMBllMWlilii 


■UltBUlfl 


-  'iiifrniBMimfT-'""^^ 


A -4 


02 


THE  SKAUCH  FOll  ANDRKW   FIKI.D 


"Wo  must  l.c  nonrlv  tl.oro,"  he  said,  after  the 
silence  that  foUowo.l.  "  Yes,  I  Icnow  now  where  wo 
arc  We  '11  put  in  by  that  large  rock  you  see  yon- 
der "  and  he  pointed  to  a  great  stone  that  was  lying 
on 'the  shore.  "They  call  that  the  Ohelisk.  They 
tell  me  that  it's  just  in  the  shape  of  the  monu- 
ments  the  Egyptians  nuule  and  called  by  that  name 
That's  the  place  where  father  luid  Andrew  and  1 
landed   the  last  time  we  came." 

In  a  little  time  the  hoys  had  the  Pilot  Bccurely 
anchored,  and  they  ucre  on  their  way  towards  the 
little  wood-colored  farmhouse  they  co,ild  sec  in  the 
distance.  Here  a  warm  welcome  awaited  them. 
Many  were  the  questions  asked  by  these  people, 
•AfHends  of  his  father.  Mr.  Potter,  the  head  of  the 
house,  had  been  a  neighbor  of  Mr.  Field's  in  Vei-- 
mont,  and  they  had  made  the  journey  to  New  York 

State  together. 

A  warm  supper  was  soon  ready  for  them,  and  the 
bovs  did  ample  justice  to  it;  and  sitting  in  front  ot 
th;  great  fireplace,  on  which  a  small  log  was  burn- 
in-,  for  although  it  was  now  summer  time  the  cold 
winds  from  the  lake  made  a  little  fire  most  agree- 
able,  they  popped  corn  and  told  the  story  of  the  loss 
of  Andrew,  and  of  their  previous  trips  to  attempt 
his  rescue,  and  their  failure.  Pavid  felt  not  a  little 
abashed  as  the  bright  eyes  of.  Mr.  Potter's  daughter 
were  on  him,  but  his  story  was  very  simply  told,  and 


VISITING 


08 


iftcr  the 
vhorc  wo 
gee  yon- 
118  lying 
k.  They 
le  momi- 
at  name. 
!W  and   I 

securely 
yards  the 
ICC  in  the 
ed  them. 
,e  peoi>le, 
sad  of  the 
s  in  Ver- 
New  York 

1,  and  the 
in  front  of 
was  burn- 
e  the  cold 
(lost  agree - 
of  the  loss 
to  attempt 
not  a  little 
•s  daughter 
ly  told,  and 


it  drew  forth  strong  comments  from  his  hearers  08 

ho  went  on. 

"Then  you  arc  going  down  the  St.  Lawrence  after 
Andrew  now,  are  you?"  asked  Mr.  Potter,  thought- 

fully.  ,.   ,  T^     -1 

"Yes;  not  very  far  down  though,"  replied  David. 
«We  shall  not  go  very  far  from  Kingston  anyway, 
for  we  heard  at  Oswego  that  the  Osprey  was  going 
to  put  in  there  in  the  course  of  a  few  weeks." 

"Have  you  ever  been  down  the  river?"  inquired 

Mr.  Potter. 

"No,"  answered  David;  "but  I  don't  think  we  11 
be  likely  to  lose  our  way  in  a  river."  , 

"You  won't  hardly  know  whether  you  arc  on  the 
lake  or  the  river,  the  river  is  so  large;  and  then 
>vhere  you  are  going  there  '8  a  lot  of  islands.  '  Ihc 
Thousand  Islands'  is  what  they  are  called." 

"I've  heard  of  them,  but  I  don't  suppose  there 
really  are  a  thousand  of  them." 

«I  don't  know  just  how  many  there  are,  but 
there  's  a  lot.  1  'vo  been  down  there  a  good  many 
times,  and  it's  an  easy  place  to  lose  your  way  in." 

"We're  going  to  stop  near  Clayton  with  some 
friends;  they  'U  tell  us  the  way  I  guess,"  responded 
David,  cheerfully.  ^ 

"That's  good.  It's  a  great  place  anyway.  It  s 
worth  a  trip  just  to  see  the  river  and  the  islands,,  if 
you  had  nothing  else  on  hand." 


u 


~T 


94 


TllK  SEAUCII  FOR  ANDHEVV   FIELD 


"  Who  was  the  first  man  to  find  that  river  ? "  asked 
David. 

"You  know  the  St.  Lawrence  empties  into  a  gulf, 
don't  you  ?  Well,  away  back  in  1506,  a  Frenchman 
named  Denys  discovered  the  Gulf  of  St.  Lawrence. 
You  see  the  Frenchmen,  even  then,  were  coming 
over  here  after  codfish ;  they  found  lots  of  them  oil' 
Newfoundland." 

"Did  Denys  sail  up  the  river  ?  "  asked  David. 

"No;  it  was  not  till  1534  that  that  was  done. 
Cartier  was  the  man  Avho  discovered  the  river.  It 
was  a  great  find  for  the  French,  too. " 

"  Did  they  settle  along  the  river  then  ?  "' 

".No ;  Champlain  made  a  settlement  at  Quebec  in 
1608;  then  they  settled  along  the  river  and  held  that 
ground  till  1763.  But  they  speak  of  their  descend- 
ants as  French  Canadians  still." 

"Did  the  French  do  much  ? "  asked  David. 

"  Yes,  they  were  very  active.  Why,  in  1673  one 
of  them  named  Marquette,  and  a  trader  named  Joliet, 
entered  what  is  now  the  United  States.  The  Indians 
had  told  them  of  a  great  river  beyond,  and  they  were 
trying  to  find  it. " 

"Did  they  find  it?" 

"  Yes ;  it  was  the  Mississippi.  They  sailed  down 
that  river  to  about  the  place  where  De  Soto  had 
crossed  it.  Then,  in  1682,  La  Salle  sailed  down 
the  Mississippi  to  its  mouth.  He  named  the  whole 
region  Louisiana." 


!T 


■?"  asked 

ito  a  gulf, 
rcncliman 
L/awrencc. 
c  coming 
them  off 

avid. 

vas  done, 
river.     It 


Quebec  in 

held  that 

dcscend- 

d. 

1673  one 
ed  Joliet, 
e  Indians 
they  were 


led  down 
Soto,  had 
led  down 
the  whole 


VISITING 


95 


"What  became  of  him  ?  "  inquired  David. 

"0,  ho  brought  over  a  colony  from  France,  and 
tried  to  make  a  settlement  at  the  mouth  of  the 
Mississippi;  but  he  couldn't  find  the  river  then. 
He  sailed  on  to  Texas,  and  was  murdered  there." 

"  And  the  other  people  too  ?  " 

"No;  they  were  broken  down  by  sickness  and  star- 
vation, and  the  most  of  them  died.  But  a  good  many 
French  missionaries,  called  Jesuits,  came  up  the 
river  and  along  the  lakes;  they  were  very  brave  and 
suffered  greatly  at  the  hands  of  the  Indians.  My 
grandfather  told  me  about  a  man  who  met  one  of 
them  in  the  woods  who  was  a  sight.  The  Indians 
had  cut  off  his  cars,  and  slit  his  nose,  and  had  stuck 
splinters  into  his  body  and  set  them  on  fire." 

"He  didn't  go  back  again,  1  guess,"  interrupted 
Elijah. 

"  Yes,  he  did ;  he  was  on  his  way  back  when  this 
man  saw  him." 

"He  was  a  brave  man,  then.  If  those  men  could 
do  such  things  I  don't  see  why  we  can't  be  brave 
enough  to  try  and  help  Andrew  out  of  his  scrape," 
said  David,  as  Mr.  Potter  rose  and  lighted  a  candle, 
to  show  the  boys  where  they  were  to  sleep  that  night. 

The  next  morning  Mr.  Potter  gave  the  boys  some 
friendly  advice  and  directions;  he  cautioned  them 
especially  not  to  tell  any  one  of  their  purpose,  and 
to  pass  as  a  party  of  boys  fishing,  it  they  met  others. 


96  THE  SEAKCII   I'OU  ANDREW  FIELD 

The  girls  went  down  to  the  shore  to  sec  the  boys 
start,  and  brought  u  sack  full  of  doughnuts  and  three 
chickens  they  had  prepared.     It  seemed  that,  after 
the  boys  were  in  bed  the  night  before,  the  girls  had 
been  busy,  and  the  result  of  their  labors  was  this  ad- 
dition to  the  stores  of  the  Pilot.    They  were  urged  to 
stop  again  on  their  return,  and  with  best  wishes  for 
u  successful  voyage  the  Pilot  was  headed  down  the 
lake ;  and  so  long  as  they  could  be  seen,  the  girls 
remained   upon  the  shore  waving  their  hands  in  . 
token  of  farewell. 

"If  we  get  Andrew,  I  guess  he  '11  want  to  stop  on 
our  way  back,"  said  David.  "He  always  thought 
that  Potter  girl  with   those   black  eyes  was  about 

right." 

"  I  don't  suppose  you  '11  want  to  stop,  though,  shall 

you,  David  ?  "  asked  Elijah. 

David  flushed  a  little  and  laughed.  "  We  've  got 
too  much  to  do  now  to  be  talking  about  girls,"  he 

said. 

The  day  was  much  like  the  preceding  one.  At 
noon  the  boys  landed,  and,  while  David  and  Elijah 
were  preparing  a  fire,  Henry  tried  his  luck  with  the 

bass  again. 

«1  think  this  lake  must  be  full  of  bass,"  said  he, 
when  he  came  ashore  with  half  a  dozen  beauties. 
"The  chicken's  all  right,  but  it'll  keep.  We  can 
cat  some  chicken  and  some  fish,  too,  I  guess." 


the  boys 
md  three 
lat,  after 
girls  had 
9  this  ad- 
!  urged  to 
rishes  for 
down  the 
the  girls 
hands  in 

to  stop  on 
}  thought 
vas  about 

lugh,  shall 

Ne  've  got 
girls,"  he 

;  one.  At 
ind  Elijah 
k  with  the 

,"  said  he, 

1  beauties. 

We  can 

iss." 


VISITING 


07 


The  boys  were  more  cheerful  than  when  they  had 
started  for  Oswego;  experience  had  given  thorn  con- 
fidence, and  they  laughed  and  sang  as  they  gathered 
about  the  iire,  and  ate  as  only  hungry  boys  camping 
out  know  how.  But  they  wasted  no  time,  and  tlio 
Pilot  was  soon  under  sail  again. 

"I've  been  thinking  about  what  Mr.  Potter  said 
about  those  Jesuits,"  said  Elijah.  "  They  must  have 
been  brave  men. " 

"So  have  I;  but  I  tell  you,"  said  Divid  thought- 
fully, "I  think  it  takes  just  about  as  much  pluck  to 
do  right  anywhere.  Ever  since  Elder  Dodd  has  been 
talking  to  me  I've  thought  a  good  deal  about  it. 
It's  just  about  as  hard  to  live  and  do  the  square 
thing,  as  it  is  to  run  off  and  go  into  the  woods  and 
not  cry  when  the  Indians  get  after  you." 

"Well,  I  don't  know  about  that,"  said  Elijah. 
"  But  it 's  getting  most  sunset  now.  We  must  bo 
in  the  river,  I  think." 

"Yes,  I  guess  we  are,"  replied  David.  "That 
settlement  over  there  must  be  Cape  \'  incont,  and  wc 
can  see  some  land  on  the  other  side.  Yes,  we  must 
be  on  the  river  now.  I  don't  believe  we  'd  better  try 
to  make  for  a  house." 

"  ::m  let  's  stop  on  this  island.  It 's  a  good  night, 
and  we  can  make  a  little  fire,  and  in  the  morning 
it  'II  be  all  clear  bailing.  No  more  night  attacks  for 
me,"  he  added,  laughing. 

7 


98 


THE  SEAltClI  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


Accordingly  the  boys  landed  and  pitched  Iheir 
tent.  Some  stunted  hemlocks  were  gmvving  on  flic 
island,  which  they  could  see  was  a  large  one.  The 
branches  of  the  trees  they  proceeded  to  cut  made  a 
good  bed,  as  they  were  spread  on  the  ground  in  the 
tent,  and  the  trunks  made  good  logs  for  the  fire. 

The  boys  ate  a  hearty  supper,  and  slept  soundly 
all  through  the  night.  Some  fish  were  added  to 
their  breakfast,  which  Henry  had  caught  before  the 
other  boys  were  awake,  and  they  were  soon  ready 
to  depart. 

"  We  must  go  over  to  the  Reescs'.  They  can't  be 
far  from  here,  and  we  will  get  some  directions  from 
them.  Perhaps  they'll  know  something  about  the 
Osprey.  Father  wanted  us  to  stop  there  anyway, 
and  we  '11  have  to  get  some  directions  from  some- 
body." 

The  boys  sent  Henry  down  to  the  Pilot  to  get  every- 
thing in  readiness  to  depart,  while  they  were  busy 
taking  down  their  tent  and  gathering  their  cooking 
utensils.  While  they  were  busily  at  work  Henry 
came  running  to  the  camp,  and  excitedly  exclaimed, 
"  There  's  a  boat  a  coming,  and  it 's  coming  here ! " 

The  boys  rushed  down  to  the  shore  and  saw  coming 
rapidly  towards  them  a  boat  pulled  by  six  men,  and 
one  sat  in  the  stern  steering. 

"  What  shall  we  do  ?  "  asked  Elijah. 

"Stay  here,  and  get  ready  to  put  off,"  said  David. 


2(1  Ihoir 
<5  on  flio 
ic.     The 

made  a 
li  in  the 
fire. 

soundly 
iddcd  to 
eforo  the 
)n   ready 

can't  be 
ona  from 
ibout  the 

anyway, 
im  some- 
ret  every- 
irere  busy 
•  cooking 
k  Henry 
iclaimed, 

here!" 
w  coming 
men,  and 


d  David. 


VISITING 


99 


But  while  they  were  talking  the  strange  boat  came 
nearer.  Suddenly  David  grasped  Elijah  by  the  arm, 
and  in  a  low  tone  said :  "  Elijah,  do  you  see  who 
that  is  steering?  It 's  Smith,  the  man  who  tried  to 
trap  us  that  night  down  by  the  Rocks." 


iiirf^-"^  a^^^  Jffiri.?-.V.li!itJ»i. 


100  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 


CHAPTER   XI 


AN   EXCHANGE   OP   BOATS 

ELIJAH  did  not  know  Smith,  and  ho  was  in 
great  hopes  that  none  of  the  boys  would  be 
recognized  by  him.  He  looked  at  David,  and  saw 
there  was  little  ground  for  his  hopes,  however,  and 
events  soon  proved  the  correctness  of  his  surmise. 
The  boat  had  scarcely  touched  the  shore,  and  the 
men  glanced  suspiciously  and  angrily  at  the  boys, 
before  the  face  of  Smith,  who  had  been  steering, 
lighted  up,  and  he  exclaimed:  — 

"  Blamed  ef  I  don't  know  these  boys.  You  're 
yoimg  Field,  Thomas  Field's  son,  from  over  by 
Sackett's.  These  two  young  fellers  with  ye,  who 
be  they?  0,  yes;  you're  that  party  that  stayed  at 
my  house  not  long  ago,  and  left  without  stoppin'  to 
say  good  by  or  how  are  ye.     How  could  ye  be  so 

onpolite  ? " 

David  made  no  reply,  chiefly  because  there  was 
none  to  be  made.  The  boys  were  abashed,  and 
could  find  no  words  to  say. 

« What  ye  doin'  down  here  ? "  continued  Smith, 


"W       J. 


eas  m 
uld  be 
id  saw 
3r,  and 
irmise. 
nd  the 
!  boys, 
cering, 

you  're 
iver  by 
e,  who 
ayed  at 
»pin'  to 
e  be  BO 

gre  was 
ed,  and 

Smith, 


AN  EXCHANGE  OF  BOATS 


101- 


while  Ilia  companions  sullenly  stood  by  and  listened. 
"I  s'pose  them  Sackett's  men  sent  ye  down  here  to 
spend  'nother  night  with  me,  did  n't  they  ?  " 

«No,  sir,"  replied  David.  "I  haven't  said  any- 
thing about  you  to  any  one.  We  came  down  here  on 
a  different  purpose  entirely." 

"What  did  ye  come  fer,  then?"  asked  Smith. 
"  Come,  I  want  to  know. " 

"  1  told  you  we  did  n't  come  to  see  or  spy  upon 
your  smuggling,  Mr.  Smith,"  replied  David. 

"  Smugglin'  1  Who 's  a  smugglin'  ? "  and  the  faces 
of  all  th^  men  grew  dark.  One  or  two  of  them  whis- 
pered something  in  Smith's  ear,  who  appeared  as  if 
he  were  undecided. 

He  hesitated  a  moment,  and  then  said  to  one  of 
the  men,  "  0,  I  don't  care  much  now.  1  'm  going  to 
leave  pretty  quick.  If  this  trip  's  a  good  one,  I  'm 
'bout  done.  Then  I  don't  care  how  much  the  young- 
sters squeal. "  ^^ 

"But  for  a  few  days  they  might  bother  us,    said 

the  other. 

" That 's  so,"  replied  Smith.  And,  turning  again 
toward  the  boys,  he  said  to  them,  "I  don't  s'pose  ye 
came  down  the  St.  Lawrence  to  ship  aboard  the  Os- 
prey,  did  ye  ?  I  hearn  tell  how  yer  brother  Andrew 
shipped,  and  I  thought  mebbe  you  had  come  too. 
They  had  a  likely  story  to  tell  on  ye  at  my  house, 
about  yer  foUowin'  the  Osprcy  tryin'  to  git  Andrew 


X 


102  THE   SEAUCII  FOU  ANDUEW  FIELD 

off.     I  knew  your  folks  wasn't  quite  fools.     But 
what  are  ye  doin'  here,  anyway  ? " 

David  made  no  reply.  To  tell  of  his  errand  would 
only  excite  the  anger  and  ridicule  of  the  party,  and 
besides  he  preferred  to  have  them  think  some  other 
project  than  the   rescue  of    Andrew  had  brought 

them.  ,  ,        n      A 

"Can't  ye  talk  ?"  continued  Smith;  and,  as  David 

still  made  no  reply,  he  turned  to  the  men,  and  held 

a  conversation  for  a  few  minutes  in  low  and  earnest 

tones  with  them.  "        .    ,.,v        i.       a 

David  and  Elijah  tried  to  appear  indifferent,  and 
yet  they  were  listening  sharply,  trying  to  catch  some 
word  that  would  give  some  clew  as  to  what  was 
likely  to  be  done  with  them,  and  what  was  best  tor 
them  to  do.  But  listen  as  they  would,  not  a  word 
could  they  catch,  and  the  angry  looks  the  men  kept 
casting  towards  them  were  not  reassuring. 

Finally  Smith,  who  continued  to  be  the  spokesman, 
turned  towards  the  boys,  and  said,  "  I  guess  ye  're 
waitin'  fer  the  Osprey.  Like  enough  they  'U  take 
ye  on  board  when  they  come  back.  She  went  by 
here  two  or  three  days  ago.  1  hope  ye  've  someth.n 
to  eat  in  yer  boat."  ,    ^    ,    i. 

"Yes,  sir,"  said  David.     "We  've  enough  to  last 

some  time." 

"  Wall,  that 's  lucky.     It 's  likely  ye  'U  have  ter 
stay  here  some  time,"  he  said;  and,  taking  a  heavy 


But 


to  last 


llKKi;,    WHAT    AKK    Vi  T     I">1N 


,,?  ■    r\l.l.l-.l>    l>\\lli."       l'-ii;i'   lUj- 


7 


AN   KXCHANQE  (»F  BOATS 


103 


axo  from  one  of  the  men,  ho  wovit  down  to  tlio  hIiopc, 
and,  stoppiuf?  on  board  tlic  Pilot,  dclilioratcly  niiacd 
it,  and  struck  throe  or  four  uharp  blows  directly  ou 
the  bottom  of  tho  boat.  * 

"Hero,  wluitaro  you  doing?  "  called  David,  excit- 
edly, as  ho  ran  down  to  tho  Hhore.  "Stop,  stop!" 
ho  called.  "0  Mr.  Bniith,  don't,— don't  spoil  the 
Tilot!     How '11  wo  ever  jj;et  home?" 

"  You  won't  need  to  f,'o  home  right  away.  Yo  can 
patch  her  up,  and  by  the  time  yc  get  her  ready,  yo 
can't  jjoach  on  us." 

Ho  turned  to  follow  the  men,  who  wore  laughing 
and  walking  towards  tho  interior  of  tho  island. 
They  stopped  within  sight  of  the  shore,  and  Smith 
soon  joined  them.  They  seated  themselves  upon 
the  ground,  and  seemed  utterly  to  ignore  tho  prca- 
encc  of  the  boys. 

Meanwhile  the  boys  disconsolately  seated  them- 
selves on  the  shore,  and  gloomily  watched  the  Pilot, 
as  she  settled  lower  and  lower.  The  water  was 
shallow,  and  she  could  not  sink,  but  they  heard 
her  bottom  grate  upon  the  stones.  They  sat  in 
silence  for  a  minute,  and  then  roused  themselves,  as 
David  said:  "Come,  boys,  let's  haul  her  up  on 
shore.  If  a  storm  comes  up,  she  '11  be  broken  to 
jiicces  where  she  is.  Besides,  wc  can  see  if  we 
can't  do  something  to  set  her  right." 

''That's  so,"  said  Elijah,   eagerly,  and  they  all 


104 


THE   SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


took  liold  to  pull  together;  but  their  combined 
strength  only  served  to  i)ull  the  Pilot  partly  out  of 
the  water. 

"Let's  take  the  thing"  out  of  her,  and  she'll  be 
lighter,"  said  Elijah,  and  the  boys  removed  the  tent 
and  food,  and  in  fact  everything  that  was  in  the 
boat.  The  Tilot  yielded  to  their  pull  more  readily 
then,  but  still  they  could  not  haul  her  out  iipon  the 

bank. 

"I  wish  1  had  some  rollers,"  said  Elijah.  "We 
could  run  her  nj)  easily  then." 

"We  can  take  the  oars  out  of  the  other  boat," 
replied  David,  "  and  run  her  up  on  them.  I  wish 
we  dared  to  get  in  their  boat  and  pull  off." 

"  So  do  I, "  said  Henry.     "  But  they  '11  shoot. " 

"Yes;  it  won't  do  to  try  it.  Some  of  us  would 
get  hurt." 

But  they  now  had  ilic  Pilot  out  of  the  water,  and 
np  on  the  bank.  They  carefully  examined  her,  and 
found  two  holes  cut  clear  through  her  bottom.  They 
looked  at  each  other  with  rueful  faces. 

"Well,  we  're  in  a  pickle  sure  now,"  said  David. 
"I  'm  awfully  sorry  it  was  your  boat,  too,  Elijah." 

"Well,  never  mind  that  part  of  it,"  responded 
Elijah,  cheerfully.     "  Let 's  see  what  can  be  done." 

"  Wo  can't  fax  that  boat ;  we  have  n't  the  tools. 
We  're  in  for  it;  we  're  like  Robinson  Crusoe.  Did 
you  ever  read  that  book  ?  "  said  David. 


1 

L 


I  .-i-  ii "-:  -"1  Viii'frtiiif  jwrtnti  - -"■  -  -  -  ■^"■-^— ^"^•^■"  r .  r.i  ■■ ;  ■■  i  ■  .i  a-.,  i 


Diubincd 
ly  out  of 

le  '11  be 
the  tout 
5  in  the 
readily 
ij)on  the 

,.     "  We 

r  boat," 
I  wish 

30t." 

US  would 

iter,  and 
her,  and 
1.     They 

i  David, 
lijah." 
jsponded 
done." 
lie  tools, 
oe.     Did 


AN  EXCHANGE  OF  BOATS 


106 


"No,"  replied  Elijah,  "but  it  was  about  a  fellow 
Ciimj)ing  out,  wasn't  it  ?  " 

"0,  yes;  ho  camped  out  pretty  much  all  his  life. 
There  was  only  one  of  him  too,  except  Friday.  Ho 
made  another," 

"  What 's  that  ? "  said  Elijah,  as  a  loud  laugh  rose 
from  tho  men.  They  had  seemingly  ignored  the 
boys  completely. 

"They're  drinking,"  said  David.  "It'll  bo  a 
pretty  go  for  us  if  they  all  get  drunk.  We  ain't 
more  than  half  a  mile  from  shore.  What  do  you  say 
to  swimming?" 

"IJenry  couldn't  stand  it,  and  I  don't  believe  any 
of  us  could. " 

"Well,  we  '11  wait  awhile  before  we  try  it,"  replied 
David.  "  We  've  got  enough  to  eat  for  a  time,  and 
some  boat  may  come  along  and  pick  us  up. " 

"Yes,  the  Osprey,"  said  Elijah,  with  a  laugh. 

Another  hoarse  yell  came  from  the  men.  The 
words  of  a  song  came  to  them,  as  they  shouted  and 


sang. 


"Do  you  suppose  they'll  touch  us?"  inquired 
Ilcni-y,  nervously. 

"I  don't  know,"  said  David.  "I  don't  like  the 
looks  of  things  at  all.  You  stay  here.  I  'm  going 
round  through  the  woods  and  will  come  up  on  the 
other  side  there  near  them.  I  want  to  find  out  what 
they  are  doing. " 


I 


'^^mss 


106  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELU 

And  David  crept  along  the  shore  under  the  bank 
until  he  had  reached  the  woods,  which  covered  the 
other  part  of  the  island.  The  boys  saw  hiiii  disaj.- 
pcar  among  the  trees,  and  they  waited  anxiously  till 
something  would  show  that  he  was  safe.  But  the 
sounds  of  revelry  from  the  men  came  faster  and 
louder.       Their   voices   were   becoming    thick    and 

hoarse. 

"If  they  're  all  drinking,  and  only  drink  enough, 
we  can  get  out  of  this,"  said  Elijah  to  Henry.  But 
all  they  could  do  was  to  wait  and  watch.  -    ■ 

A  half-hour  passed,  and  there  were  no  signs  of 
David.  The  songs  and  shouts  from  the  men  had 
been  more  irregular,  and  not  quite  so  loud  for  the 
past  few  minutes. 

"There's  David,"  said  Henry  quickly,  pointing 
out  to  the  woods  by  the  shore. 

"That's  so,"  said  Elijah,  as  he  saw  David  crouch- 
in*  low,  and  running  at  the  top  of  his  speed  along 
the  shore  now.  In  a  few  minutes  he  had  reached 
them,  and  out  of  breath  began  his  story. 

"Boys,  they  're  drunk  as  lords,  every  one  of  'em," 
he  said.     "  We  want  to  get  out  of  this  right  away. " 

"Didn't  they  leave  any  one  on  guard?"   asked 

Elijah.     "  Are  you  sure  every  one  of  'cm 's  drunk  ?  " 

"Yes,  I  waited  till  I  was  sure  of  every  one.     Now 

we  want  to  pile  all  our  traps  into  their  boat  and  get 

out  of  this. " 


the  bank 
vcred  the 
im  disaj)- 
oiisly  till 
But  the 
istcr  and 
liick    and 

k  enough, 
luy.     But 

)  signs  of 

men  had 

id  for  the 

,  pointing 

id  crouch- 
lecd  ah)ng 
id  reached 

le  of  'em," 
lit  away. " 
I?"  asked 
8  drunk  ?  " 
one.  Now 
oat  and  get 


AN  EXCHANGE  OF  BOATS 


107 


«  Their  boat  ?  Shall  wc  take  their  boat  ?  " 
"Yes,"  said  David,  half  angrily.  "This  is  no 
time  to  stop  and  talk  over  .such  things.  We  '11  leave 
'em  the  Pilot,  and  she  's  worth  two  of  their  old  tub. 
Wc  can  set  a  sail  in  their  boat,  and  that 's  about  all 
you  can  say  for  it,  anyAvay." 

The  boys  rapidly  and  silently  went  to  work,  and 
transferred  all  their  possessions  into  the  other  boat. 
They  had  no  place  to  store  their  provisions  in  it,  so 
they  covered  them  with  their  sail.  In  a  few  minutes 
they  were  ready  to  start. 

"  You  don't  suppose  they  '11  follow  us,  do  you  ?  " 
asked  Henry,  a  little  timidly,  as  he  saw  one  of  the 
men  try  to  stagger  to  his  feet,  but  he  quickly  fell 
back,  and  seemed  to  be  as  quiet  as  the  rest. 

"We'll  give  'em  a  chance,  anyway,'' said  David. 
"Jump  aboard;  we  will  only  use  the  oars  first  till 
wc  get  behind  the  island.     I  guess  we  '11  try  the 
other  side  behind  the  trees,  and  go  down  the  river 
that  way." 

The  boys  pulled  rapidly  around  to  the  other  side 
of  the  island,  but  had  only  started  down  stream  when 
out  from  behind  the  island,  in  front  of  them,  shot 
another  boat,  coming  directly  towards  them. 


■tMiliiiilMia 


,? 


108 


THE  SEAKCII  FOR  ANDREW  PIELD 


CHAPTER  XII 

OUTWITTED 

THE  boys  could  not  turn  back.  To  go  ahead  was 
dangerous,  and  yet  as  the  lesser  evil  of  the  two 
they  kept  on.  The  boats  came  nearer  together,  and 
as  they  passed  they  could  see  that  the  other  was 
like  their  own.  In  it  were  four  men  rowing,  and  a 
fifth  was  steering.  But  the  other  boat  passed  by 
without  a  word,  and  soon  was  around  the  bend  and 
out  of  sight. 

"  Do  you  suppose  they  were  part  of  the  same  gang  ? 
Maybe  they  were  going  to  meet  those  other  men  on 
that  island,  and  that 's  what  they  were  waiting  for," 
said  Elijah. 

"Like  enough,"  responded  David.  "But  I  think 
wc  'd  better  put  in  on  one  of  these  islands  pretty 
soon,  and  not  try  to  get  over  to  the  mainland  now. 
We  '11  have  to  keep  watch,  and  see  what  we   can 

see." 

"  We  're  having  more  trouble  with  smugglers  than 
with  the  Osprey,"said  Henry.  "  We  have  n't  seen 
her  but  once. " 


illini 


-r'-im-nriirr-rrTr'Hrfhi 


D 


OUTWITTED 


109 


•  ahead  was 
1  of  the  two 
gether,  and 

other  was 
rting,  and  a 

passed  by 
c  bend  and 

same  gang  ? 
ler  men  on 
aiting  for," 

But  I  think 
ands  pretty 
nland  now. 
lat  wo   can 

igglers  than 
ave  n't  seen 


The  boys  kept  on  their  way  past  the  first  island, 
and  headed  for  the  second  about  a  mile  away.  They 
did  not  use  their  sail,  but  depended  upon  their  oars. 
They  rowed  rapidly,  and  vet  talked  of  the  smugglers. 

"You  see  this  is  a  kind  of  border  line  along  the 
St.  Lawrence,"  said  David,  "and  I  suppose  there's 
lots  o'  chances  to  dodge  the  customs. " 

"Well,  I  think,"  said  Eljiah,  "that  these  fellows 
work  harder  to  get  a  living  by  snmggling  than  an 
honest  man  does  by  steady  work. " 

"So  do  I,"  replied  David.  "I  think  it's  most 
always  so.  Don't  you  remember  Abe  Coons  at  the 
checkered  school  house  last  winter  ?  You  know  he 
would  copy  his  sums,  and  cheat  in  the  class,  and  I 
always  said  if  he  had  spent  half  the  time  in  learning 
them  that  he  spent  in  trying  to  get  rid  of  learning 
them,  or  in  cheating  in  the  class,  he  would  have 
got  along  better,  and  with  a  good  deal  less  work. 
Besides,  everybody  know  he  was  a  cheat. " 

"  Look,  David !  look,  Elijah ! "  called  out  Henry. 
"That  boat's  coming  back,  and  they're  after  us 

sure. " 

"I  believe  they  are  after  us,"  said  David,  quietly. 
"They  've  seen  us,  and  the  only  thing  we  can  do  is 
to  pull  as  hard  as  we  can  for  the  other  island,  and 
see  if  we  can't  hide  somewhere." 

The  boys  had  a  long  lead,  but  strength  and  num- 
bers were  in  the  other  boat.     The  boys  were  near 


i  i 


JJ 


110  THK  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

the  second  island,  and  soon  turned  a  point  which 
hid  them  from  their  ])iir8uer8. 

"  Here  's  a  good  place,"  said  Elijah.  "  Let 's  run 
the  hoat  in  amtmg  those  rushes,  and  we  can  climh 
up  on  shore.  Perhaps  they  '11  pass  hy  and  not  see 
us.     If  they  do,  maybe  we  can  get  away." 

So  their  boat  was  sent  quickly  in  among  the  weeds 
that  rose  several  feet  higher  than  the  boys'  heads  on 
either  side  of  them. 

"  Shall  wc  stay  hero  and  wait  till  they  go  by  ?  " 

asked  Elijah. 

"No,"  said  David.  "I  'm  afraid  they  '11  see  where 
we  come  in  here.  We  '11  leave  the  boat  and  go  up 
behind  those  trees.  I  don't  know  whether  this  is  an 
island  or  the  mainland.     It  looks  big  enough  to  be 

the  shore." 

Quickly  the  boys  anchored  the  boat,  and  leaped 
ashore,  and  were  at  once  among  the  great  trees  that 
came  almost  down  to  the  water.  They  did  not  go 
very  far  from  the  shore,  but  taking  their  stand  behind 
some  of  the  great  trunks,  they  waited  for  the  boat  to 

pass. 

In  a  few  minutes  it  came  around  the  point,  rapidly 
sweeping  on.      In  the  stern  sat  the  ever  present 

Smith.  ,^ 

"He  seems  to  have   recovered  from  his  spree,' 

whispered  David. 

"  Yes, "  replied  Elijah.     "  He  's  always  on  deck. " 


A 


oint  which 

"  Let  '8  run 

can  climb 

nd  not  see 

y" 

!r  the  weeds 
s'  heads  on 

oy  go  by  ?  " 

11  sec  where 
it  and  go  up 
2r  this  is  an 
snough  to  be 

and  leaped 
it  trees  that 

did  not  go 
stand  behind 
r  the  boat  to 

oint,  rapidly 
ever  present 

his  spree," 

ya  on  deck. " 


OUTWITTKD 


f 


111 


But  the   boat  swept  on,   and  disappeared    around 

the  other  point. 

"Tliey're   gone,  thank    goodness'."   said   Henry, 
stepping  forth  from  l)ehiud  his  tree. 

"Wait  a  little,  Henry,"  called  David.  "They 
may  come  back;  don't  be  in  a  hurry." 

And  the  boys  waited  for  a  little  time,  and  it  was 
well  they  did.  For  in  a  few  minutes  they  heard  the 
other  boat  coming  back,  and  the  voices  of  the  men 
in  conversation. 

"I  don't  see  what  you  want  of  the  youngsters. 
Smith,  anyway,"  said  one  of  the  men.  "What  can 
three  boys  do  against  us,    to  say  nothing  of  iho 

Osprey?" 

"  I  don't  want  them,  except  for  a  few  days.  As 
soon  as  the  Osprey  takes  me  aboard,  I  shall  feel  safe. 
But  these  boys  can  stir  up  a  great  hornet's  nest  by 
rousing  the  people  long  shore  now." 

"You  don't  want  that,  I  know,"  said  one  of  them, 

with  a  laugh. 

"No,  I  don't;  my  neck  is  better  to  me  than  to  any 
one  else,  and  my  Yankee  cousins  have  been  looking 
for  me  for  a  good  while. " 

"Those  boys  must  be  in  here  somewhere,"  added 
he,  as  he  motioned  for  the  boat  to  stop.  "Let's 
go  in  for  a  time.  We  went  out  around  the  point, 
and  they  were  not  in  sight,  so  1  think  they  're  in 
here." 


iffwaiiii 


a(\*-i-T^j  L-  -  - 


mmm 


..J) 


112  TIIK   SKAUCII   FOU  ANDUKW   FIKLD 

"Well,    we'll   go  nshore   and  see."      And   tlicy 
changed  tlicii"  comae  and  landed. 

David  had  taken  the  precantion  to  grab  some  of 
their  eatables  as  he  had  come  from  the  boat,  and  now 
the  boys  took  to  their  heels  and  ran  into  the  woods, 
where  the  sight  and  sound  of  the  men  could  not  reach 
them.  They  kept  on  for  an  hour  till  they  came  to 
the  river  again. 

"This  is  an  island,  you  sec,"  said  Elijah. 

"Yes,"   said  David.     «1   guess   Mr.    Potter  was 

about  right  when  he  said   there  were  a  thousand 

islands  here.     Just  look  at  them,"  and  he  pointed 

ofT  to  the  cast,  where  many  little  islands  could  be 

SCCIlf 

The  boys  sat  down  in  a  quiet  spot,  and  ate  their 
lunch  in  silence.  All  three  were  perplexed,  and  a 
good  deal  cast  down.  They  had  lost  their  boat,  and 
without  the  Pilot  what  could  they  hope  to  do  ?  Here 
they  were  on  an  island,  practically  prisoners  of  a 
party  of  smugglers,  who  evidently  wanted  them  out 

of  the  way. 
'        "Towards  night  we'll  go  back   and  see  if  they 

haven't  gone,"  said  David.  ^ 

"If  they  haven't  found  our  boat,  and  if  they  ve 
gone,  we  '11  wait  till  morning,  and  then  try  to  get 
over  to  Clayton,  where  that  man  lives  father  wants 

us  to  see. "  ,  j  •  j 

So  they  waited  till,  as  nearly  as  they  could  judge, 


-r^ 


.nd   tlicy 

Bomc  of 

and  now 

le  woods, 

not  reach 

cumc  to 


otter  was 
thousand 

e  pointed 
could  be 

ate  their 
:ed,  and  a 

boat,  and 
lo  ?  Here 
jners  of  a 

them  out 

ee  if  they 

if  they've 

try  to  get 

ither  wants 

juld  judge, 


OUTWITTED 


113 


it  was  four  o'clock,  and  thou  they  started  to  return. 
Tlicy  walked  quietly  through  the  woods,  and  as  they 
came  near  to  the  place  where  the  smugglers  had 
lauded,  they  walked  with  greater  caution.  In  a  little 
tiuu!  they  came  in  sight  of  the  river,  and  then  of  the 
place  where  they  had  landiid. 

"Look  there,  Elijah!  "  said  David. 

Elijah  looked  as  David  directed,  and  saw  side  by 
side  upon  the  shore  the  two  boats,  —  one  in  which 
the  smugglers  had  come,  and  the  other  the  one  they 
themselves  had  used. 

"They've  found  our  boat,  as  sure  as  you  live," 
whispered  Elijah. 

"  Yes,  they  have,"  said  David.  "Now,  what 's  to 
be  done.  We  have  n't  anything  more  to  eat,  and  not 
even  our  tent  to  sleep  in,  though  1  don't  mind  that" 

So  the  boys  sat  down  and  deliberated.  They 
talked  in  low  tones,  for  they  did  not  know  whore 
their  pursuers  were. 

They  could  see  one  man  on  guard,  and  as  he 
yawned  and  occasionally  stepped  a  little  out  of  his 
path,  peering  off  down  the  shore,  it  became  evident 
to  the  boys,  who  were  watching  him,  that  he  was 
alone,  and  that  he  was  impatiently  awaiting  the 
return  of  the  others. 

"I  tell  you  what,"  said  David,  "I  believe  we  can 
get  away  if  there  's  only  one  man  there.  We  're 
sti'onger  than  he  is." 


114 


THE  SKAIUMI   FOU  ANDUKW   FIKLD 


«  I>.„t  not  8tron>,'cr  than  hin  pun,'' BaWl  Hlijnh. 
»'  Well,  wliy  can't  we  trap  liini  ?  " 

"  How ' " 

.  Wl,v '  1  -11  cull  liim,  .m,l  he  Ml  come  out  int"  ll«- 
„«Kl..  IlcMl  follow  .urcly  if  1  call.  1  can  lead 
[•1  ,.„„„d  a  circle,  and  I  k„o»  I  can  run  faster 
^  ,  he  can.  While  he  •»  Rone,  you  fellow,  can  ru.h 
Iwn  to  the  .1.0,0,  and  Ret  the  hoat  and  l.r  R  ;_t 
around  the  ,K,int,  and  1  '11  he  there  ""-If' "  '?;  "^ 

"  S-|K.Be  the  other  fellow '» there,  too,"  «aul  M.jah. 
"  Shall  wo  take  him,  too  ? "  .     ,  ,  .  4 

■      »No:  it  he  follow,  me  at  all  I  can  .ead  h.m  on 
into  the  wood,,  and  1  '11  leave  him  there,  and  1  11 
run  round  to  the  .here ;  let '.  try  it,  anyway. 

"All  ri.'ht,"  reslionded  the  l...y..     "We  11   wait 
„e,..«uriryo"«cthimoff.we.llmakeal.realc 

fl.ed  own  the  guard.     In  a  few  m.nutc.  they  .aw 
■n  .3  and  li'ten.     He  .aid  .omethin,  they  could 
r  h«.r,  ard  then  started  off  toward,  the  wood.. 
n^hStc.  for  a  momen,,  a.  he  turned  an     looked 
towards  the  hoat,  but  only   for  a  moment,  lo, 
imickly  pas.cd  out  of  .ight  among  the  tree. 
'  Elijalf  and   Henry   made  a  break,    and    start  d 
along  the  shore  for  the  boat..     Not  a  man  w.    m 
sight     They  arrived  safely  at  the  place  where  they 
were,  and,   hastily   throwing   somo   oar.   mlo   the 


filBTitri 


«M^ 


mmmf 


ah. 


int(t  tlio 
jiin  lead 
11  faster 
can  nisli 
hriuj^  it 
iboanl." 
d  Elijah. 

him  out 
and  1  '11 

e  '11   wivit 
»  a  break 

their  cycB 
they  saw 
they  could 
he  woods, 
ind  looked 
nt,  ior  he 

IS. 

nd  started 
aan  was  in 
where  they 
s    into   the 


oLTWirrEl) 


115 


one    they   hud  coino   over   in,   they   were   about  to 

start  off.  _  ,^ 

♦'Hold   on   a  minute;    turn   about 's   fair  play, 
said  Elijah,  as  he  seized  a  hatehet,  and  striking  three 
hard,  quick  1)1(.\V8  upon  the  bottom  of  the  other  boat; 
they  saw  it  rapidly  be^;in  to  lill. 

They   took   the   oars   and  began  as  hard  as  they 
could  to  pull  the  heavy  yawl  around  the  point.     In 
a  few  minutes  they  had  reached  it,  and  were  resting 
on  their  oars,  waiting.     In  a  short  time  David  camo 
out  of  the  wo().l8,  almost  breathless,  running  at  the 
toj)  of  his  speed.     He  jumped   into  the   boat,  and 
the  boys  began  to  row.     He  took  the  sail  and  let  it 
out,  and  then  holding  the  sheet  with  his  teeth,  he 
took  his  i)lace  at  the  oars  with  the  others.     The  boys 
did  not  seem  to  heed  the  direction  in  which  they  were 
going,  if  only  they  could  get  away  from  the  island. 
Just^thcn  they  saw  standing  on  the  shore  the  figure 
of  a  man,  wildly  gesticulating,  and  waving  his  hands 
for  them  to  come  back. 
"Guess  not,"  said  Elijah. 

"But  they  '11  bfl  J>iter  us,"  said  David,  resting  for 
a  moment,  and  taking  the  sheet  from  between  his 

teeth. 

"I  fixed  their  boat.  It  won't  sail  very  well,  I 
guess,"  said  Elijah.  '"  I  did  it;  I  did  it  with  my 
little  hatchet,'  as  the  reading-book  said  of  George 
Washington." 


116  THE  SKAUCll   F«)U  ANDUKW   FIELD 

.Ilow  did  you  nx  that  guard  V  "  he  nnkod  David. 
.0  I  called  to  him  to  com.  there  whcMC  1  was  and 

ectadrinkofwhiKkey.     He  did  n't  much  want  to 
U^  the  .hiKkey   wa«  too  much      ^^-^  fe    >w!   1 
suppose  he  Ml  catch  it  when  the  otlK-vK  come  ha^^^^^ 
' 'TlK-y    woii't    know    anything    about    it,      said 

"^"wim't  they  ?"Baid  Eli  jal.    "Just  wait  till  they 

trv  to  get  in  their  hoat." 

^  1  ,;M,mit  further  conversation. 

The  hoys  rowed  on  without  luriner  cui 

away.    Flimlly  Elijah,  lo»k"'8 '■""■"V"^ '     ;     '„ 
1  don't  know  whore  wo  arc,  no,-  whco  wo  ,o  go- 
it    This  rivor  i.  all  full  of  i»land».     I  don't  know 
where  the  shore  is;  do  you?" 

" k-„,"  replied  David.     "I'm  all  tnrned  round. 
The  K,ys  looked  at  eaoh  other  blankly  tor  a  nunnto 
The  snn  was  out  o£  sight,   and  darkness  was  fast 
coming  on. 


crsation. 
3y    Bailed 
"David, 
vo'rc  go- 
on't  know 

round." 
a  minute. 
J  was  fast 


A  msCDVKUY 


11' 


CHAPTER  XIII 


A   DISrOVEHY 


THE  boys  tried  one  direction  after  another,  but 
whatever  the  way  they  turned,  they  found  noth- 
injr  but  islands.  DarkncHS  was  fast  coming  on,  and 
the  air  was  becoming  chilly. 

«  David,  you  are  lost,"  said  Elijah,  finally. 

«  Yes,  cither  I  'm  lost,  or  the  way  is,  I  don't  know 
which.  I  'm  here,  but  where  the  right  course  to  the 
shore  is,  I  don't  know.  And  I  wish  I  did,"  rcsponiW 
David,  as  some  drops  of  rain  began  to  fall. 

"Well,  let's  go  ashore,"  said  Elijah.  "We  can't 
sleep  in  the  boat,  but  we  have  the  tent  and  the 
blankets.  I  guess  they  'U  keep  us  dry  till  morn- 
ing.   Let's  land  here,"  he  added,  as  they  camo  near 

shore. 

"We'd  better,  I  think,"  said  David,  and  they  ran 
their  boat  ashore  and  after  securely  anchoriug  it,  they 
found  the  rain  coming  down  faster,  and  the  darkness 

increasing. 

"I  don't  see  what  we're  going  to  do,"  interposed 
Henry.  « I  can't  see  ranch  now.  And  think  of  the 
Pilot,  all  stove  in!" 


- 


Jkaim 


iMMm 


iMAt>a*M*w 


J 


118  THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

David  replied  cheerfully.  He  was  not  at  all  in  a 
cheerful  mood,  but  he  must  do  something  to  keep  up 
the  spirits  of  the  others. 

"  It  looked  to  me  as  if  there  were  some  rocks  along 
the  shore  here.  Let 's  get  a  light  and  see  if  we  can't 
find  some  sheltered  spot  we  can  crawl  into  for  the 

night." 

They  had  sUmost  nothing  to  serve  as  a  torch,  but 
they  did  manage  to  get  a  little  light.  Carrying  the 
tent  and  their  blankets,  they  stumbled  on,  along  what 
seemed  to  be  something  like  a  pathway. 

Suddenly,  David,  who  was  in  advance,  with  a  cry 
disappeared  from  view. 

"Where  are  you,  David?    Are  you  hurt?"  calle(' 

out  the  boys. 

«No,  I'm  only  bruised.  Hold  a  light  over  the 
edge  so  that  I  can  answer  your  question,  and  see 

where  I  am." 

Holding  the  light  over  him,  they  saw  that  he  had 
fallen  into  what  appeared  to  be  an  opening  of  a 
gorge.  He  was  unhurt,  but  he  could  not  reach  the 
edge  of  the  rocks  on  which  they  stood. 

"  Why  don't  we  stay  where  you  are  all  night  ?  "  asked 
Elijah.     "  It 's  out  of  the  wet." 

"  I  don't  know  where  it  leads  to,  this  gorge,"  re- 
sponded David,  dubiously.  "There  may  be  bears  or 
panthers  down  there." 

"  Well,  let 's  chance  it  any  way,"  said  Elijah,  throw- 


lesMtMMMIWIlwMaMMHi 


D 

it  all  in  a 
10  keep  up 

•ocks  along 
if  we  can't 
ito  for  the 

I  torch,  but 
u-rying  ihe 
along  what 

with  a  cry 

rt?"  calle(' 

it  over  the 
on,  and  see 


that  he  had 
jening  of  a 
>t  reach  the 

ght?"  asked 

J  gorge,"  re- 
'  be  bears  or 

Slijah,  throw- 


A   DISCOVEUY 


lift 


ing  down  the  tent  and  blankets  before  hin>,  and  then 
lotting  himself  down,  an  example  that  Henry  followed. 
The  boys  found  themselves  in  a  circular  spot,  some- 
thing like  a  well,  but  with  an  opening  on  one  side  that  . 
led  they  could  not  see  whither.  The  ground  was 
covered  with  old  leaves,  and  the  icfuso  that  had 
blown  in  there  for  years. 

"  Let 's  see  what 's  here,  anyway,*'  said  Elijah,  and 
he  held  his  light,  and  carefully  examined  the  entire 
place  into  which  they  had  fallen. 

"  Something  or  somebody  's  in  the  habit  of  being 
here  often,"  he  said  after  a  little.  "I  don't  know 
whether  it 's  bears  or  men.  We  '11  just  stretch  that 
tent  right  across  this  opening,  and  wc  '11  know  if  any- 
thing comes  from  that  side  I  guess.  We  might  as 
well  turn  in  anyway.  Somebody  '11  have  to  stay  on 
guard.     I'll  do  it  first,  and  we'll  take  turns." 

The  other  boys  were  soon  asleep,  wrapped  in  their 
blankets.  Elijah  sat  down  and  listened.  He  could 
hear  the  rain  as  it  steadily  fell  outside  the  rocks. 
There  was  not  much  wind,  but  the  little  waves  of  the 
St.  Lawrence  he  could  hear  as  they  lapped  the  shore. 
FTe  thought  of  home,  and  half  wished  lie  were  there, 
as  the  lonesome  sounds  of  the  rain  and  wind  came  to 
him.  Then  he  thought  of  Andrew  Field  and  how 
lonesome  he  must  be. 

"  We  surely  ain't  in  any  bed  of  roses.  We  've  lost 
our  way  and  here  wc  are  on  this  stormy  night  asleep 


MUMuMh, 


'','imrr'''-'''^ 


I 


S  !i 


120  THE  SEAllCII  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 

in  this  cave.    After  all  wc  're  better  off  than  Andrew, 
and  I  guess  we'll  get  out  of  this  scrape   somehow 

together." 

Thus  he  was  communing  with  himself,  and  the 
sound  of  the  rain  kept  on.  Elijah  began  to  nod. 
Several  times  he  roused  himself,  and  resolutely  tried 
to  keep  guard,  but  somehow  his  head  would  fall  for- 
ward, and  before  he  knew  it  he  was  fast  asleep. 

It  was  nearly  light  when  iie  awoke  with  a  start. 
He  shook  himself,  and,  half  ashamed,  looked  round 
at  the  other  boys.  They  still  slept  on.  "  Guess  we 
won't  need  any  guard  now,"  thought  Elijah.  "I'll 
go  back  to  the  boat,  and  see  what  can  be  done  for 
breakfast."  But  when  ho  tried  to  climb  the  sides  he 
found  no  place  for  a  foothold.  He  turned  about  to 
rouse  the  boys,  when  his  eye  fell  on  the  opening  that 
was  in  their  bedchamber. 

"  I  might  as  well  do  a  little  exploring  on  my  own 
account,"  said  h.  to  himself.  "I'll  be  back  before 
the  boys  wake  up." 

So  Elijah  started  on  his  way  through  the  opening. 
It  was  light  enough  now  for  him  to  see  his  way  clearly. 
It  evidently  was  a  path  he  was  walking  in,  and,  stoop- 
ing down,  he  could  plainly  see  the  prints  of  feet  on 
the  gravel.  He  walked  more  slowly,  and  peered  care- 
fully ahead  of  him.  He  did  n't  know  but  men  were 
somewhere  there  now,  and  if  they  were,  it  boded  little 
good  for  him.     But  as  he  had  started,  he  decided  to 


I 

I 


■Mil 


I  Andrew, 
somehow 

,  and  the 
n  to  nod. 
iitely  tried 
d  fall  for- 
cep. 

th  a  start, 
ked  round 
'Guess  we 
ah.  "I'll 
e  done  for 
he  sides  he 
d  about  to 
jening  that 

an  my  own 
)ack  before 

le  opening* 
vay  clearly, 
and,  stoop- 
i  of  feet  on 
)eered  care- 
t  men  were 
boded  little 
i  decided  to 


A  DISCOVERY 


121 


keep  on  his  way  until  he  should  find  something  that 
would  explain  matters  somewhat. 

He  walked  for  about  twenty  minutes  on  through 
the  gorge.  He  could  sec  the  sky  above  him  all  the 
time,  and  the  increasing  light  made  things  plainer. 
It  was  evidently  a  pathway  he  was  walking  in,  and 
it  led  him  sometimes  high  over  the  rocks  below,  and 
then  again  came  down  to  what  had  once  evidently 
been  the  bed  of  a  stream. 

His  progress  was  slow,  and  during  the  twenty 
minutes  he  had  not  gone  far.  But  he  then  came  to 
a  place  where  the  path  divided.  One  part  of  it  led 
up  over  the  side  of  the  gorge,  and  disappeared  among 
the  trees  which  he  saw  over  the  banks.  The  other 
turned  to  his  left,  and  led  he  knew  not  where. 

He  decided  to  take  the  one  to  the  left.  He  had 
taken  but  a  few  steps  when  he  came  to  what  seemed 
the  end.  There  appeared  to  be  nothing  but  the  smooth 
side  of  the  banks.  Elijah  was  puzzled,  and  was  about 
to  turn  b?c,k,  when  he  thought  he  saw  something  be- 
hind the  bushes  that  grew  all  along  the  sides  of  the 
gorge,  and  peering  carefully  he  saw  that  tl  )  path  con- 
tinucd.  He  pushed  aside  the  bushes,  and  found  the 
pathway  had  not  ended,  but  led  into  a  cave.  Should 
he  go  on  ?  Carefully,  stealthily,  Elijah  crept  on.  Only 
a  few  steps  brought  him  into  a  large  cave,  and  in  this 
the  little  sunlight  that  came  at  first  only  dazzled  his 
eyes. 

If "' ' 


■i«-»»,'*WW»"liH'".« 


122  THE  SEAUCIl  FOR   ANDUEW   FIELD 

No  one  beside  himBclf  was  there.  That  wna  evi- 
d(>nt,  and  of  that  he  soon  [.atisficd  himself.  Th<-n  he 
saw  that  the  cave  seemed  to  be  filled  with  chests  and 
boxes.  Kegs  were  in  one  corner,  and  he  saw  many 
casks  on  one  side.  He  stepped  inside,  and  his  eyes, 
now  accustomed  to  the  dimness,  could  plainly  see  the 
great  amount  of  somethiag  that  was  there.  What 
was  it?  He  began  to  examine.  Casks  of  brandy, 
kegs  of  powder,  and  guns  he  saw.  Then  there  were 
axes  and  hatchets.  Evidently  he  had  found  the  head- 
quarters of  the  smugglers,  and  these  things,  which 
the  hardy  settlers  needed,  they  were  smugghng. 

As  Elijah  looked  about  him  he  half  expected  to  see 
the  men  coming  back,  and  finding  him  there.  He 
knew  he  would  receive  but  little  mercy  at  their  hands. 
And  he  trembled  as  he  thought  of  the  appearance 
Smith's  face  would  assume  if  he  should  discover  him 

there.  ,,  ,  , 

Elijah  retreated.  As  rapidly  as  he  could,  he  made 
his  way  back  to  the  place  where  he  had  left  the  other 
boys  asleep.  His  excited  mind  saw  smugglers  all 
along  the  way,  but  he  came  safely  and  soon  mto  the 
place  where  the  boys  were. 

They  were  awake  now,  and  looked  greatly  surprised 
as  he   stepped    forth    into  the    open    space  before 

them. 

"We  thought  vou  had  cleared  out  and  left  us,  or 
else  some  bear  had  oaten  you  up.    Where  in  the  world 


mmmm 


A  DISCOVERY 


123 


wna  evi- 
TIk'ii  ho 
bests  and 
jaw  many 
his  eyes, 
ily  see  the 
i-e.  What 
)f  brandy, 
there  were 
I  the  bead- 
igs,  which 

cted  to  see 
there.  He 
lieir  bands, 
appearance 
iscover  him 

d,  be  made 
it  the  other 
ugglers  all 
an  into  the 

ly  surprised 
3ace  before 

left  us,  or 
in  the  \vorld 


have  you  been  ?"  asked  David,  as  he  looked  at  Elijah, 
whose  face  had  lost  none  of  its  excited  look. 

«  1  've  seen  something  that  makes  me  want  to  get  out 

of  this.    I '  ve  found  the  headquarters  of  the  smugglers." 

"Headquarters  of  the  smugglers?     What  do  you 

moan  ?"  asked  David.     And  rapidly  Elijah  recounted 

the  story  of  his  morning's  walk. 

"  I  tell  yoti,  we  want  to  get  away  from  this  Island 
right  off,"  said  Elijah.  "If  those  men  come  back 
he°re,  as  they  will  soon,  and  find  us  here,  they  '11 
make  short  work  of  us." 

"  That 's  so,"  said  David.  «  We  'II  leave,  and  cook 
our  breakfast  on  some  other  island,"  and  with  Elijah's 
help  he  was  soon  up  on  the  rocks.  The  boys  threw 
up  to  him  the  tents  and  blankets,  and  David,  lending 
them  bis  aid,  soon  brought  them  up  out  of  the  pit. 

« 1  suppose  Elder  Dodd  would  have  something  to 
say  about  being  taken  out  of  a  horrible  pit,"  said 

Elijah. 

« I  don't  think  he  'd  say  very  much  if  he  were  here. 
IIo  'd  put  for  the  boat  and  leave  this  region.  1  wish, 
though,  we  could  take  some  of  those  smugglers'  things 
away  with  us,"  said  David. 

"Do  you  think  we'd  have  any  right  to?"   asked 

Henry. 

"  Well,  I  don't  know,"  answered  David  dubiously. 
"They  don't  belong  to  those  men  by  rights.  But 
then  I  don't  know  as  they  do  to  us  either." 


^ifiKUMtMsi--^>ir*ri^tMid^vi,iiai 


r 


.,,nwHiiiii.    II.  III.I.IIIII..  ■■  .1  .  i.UiH..UH|i-'ti.. 


124  THE  SEARCH    FOU  ANDREW   FIELD 

The  boys  had  now  reached  the  place  where  their 
boat  was.  They  found  cverythh.g  as  they  had  left 
it  and  in  a  very  short  time  they  had  pushed  the  boat 
out  into  the  current,  and  were  being  carried  on  down 
stream  at  quite  a  rapid  rate. 

"Guess  we'll  land  over  there,"  said  David,  point- 
ing  to  an  island.  » I  think  I  could  find  this  island  of 
the  smugglers  again  if  I  wanted  to,  don't  you.  Khjah  ? 

"Yes  I  could  find  it  from  here.  I  remember  just 
how  the  trees  were  placed  on  the  shore  where  we 

landed."  ,       i  r    i. 

«  Well  we  '11  go  ashore  here  and  get  our  breakfast 
I'm  hungry  enough  to  eat  almost  anything;   and  I 
did  n't  stay  awake  all  night  either  to  keep  guard, 
and  he  looked  laughingly  at  Elijah. 

»I'm  afraid  I  didn't  stay  awake  either,    replied 

Eliiah,  ruefully- 

Breakfast  was  soon  ready,  and  the  boys  were  thoi- 
ouc^hly  readv  for  it.  In  silence  they  sat  near  the  fire, 
eating  and  ihinking,  Each  one  was  afraid  to  express 
his  thoughts,  so  full  of  fear  and  perplexity  was  he. 

Suddenly  the  boys  heard  a  voice  of  some  one  say- 
ing,  «  Hello,  boys!"  They  looked  up,  and  sprang 
every  one  to  his  feet. 


re  their 
had  left 
the  boat 
on  down 

d,  point- 
i^laud  of 
Elijah?" 
nber  just 
Inhere  we 

areakfaat. 
g;  and  I 
p  guard," 

,"  replied 

were  thor- 
ir  the  fire, 
to  express 
was  he. 
e  one  say- 
nd  sprang 


r 


I 


:^.^>#r>w 


llil,      'AMlil.    |..|       Mil      MI.W.M       I"     Mil, "S'    II."        I'.'L'.'      1-^ 


V. 


*^ 


n 


AN   ADUmON 


126 


CilAl'TER  XIV 

AN  AnniTION 

TN  sllouco  they  waited  for  the  stranger  to  approach. 
1  When  they  saw  that  he  was  alone,  their  fear» 
subsided  a  little,  for  at  first  they  thought  the  smug- 
glers were  coining. 

The  appearance  of  the  man  was  decidedly  peculiar. 
Although  it  was  midsummer,  ho  wore  a  cap  made  of 
skins  His  other  garments  were  coarse,  and  showed 
many  signs  of  hard  usage.  Over  one  shoulder  was 
shin.'  a  gun,  and  his  bullet  pouch  and  powder  flask 
hung  from  the  other.     In  his  belt  were  a  hatchet  and 

knife,  and  in  his  hand  he  carried  a  (ishing-rod. 

The  peaceful  object  of  his  visit  became  ap|)arcnt 

when  they  saw  the  rod,  and  as  he  evidently  was  a 

man  the  boys  had  never  seen  before,  they  became 

calm  and  waited  for  his  approach. 

Without  any  further  words  he  came  to  the  place 

where  they  were  standing,  and  seated  himself  upon 

the  ground.    Not  a  word  had  he  uttered  after  his 

salutation  when  he  first  saw  them. 

They  waited  for  him  to  speak.     But  for  a  minute 

he  was  silent,  scanning  their  provisions  and  posses- 


I2fi 


TlIK  SKAUCII   FOIt  ANDRKW   FIKI.D 


-^ 


/* 


hioim,  niul  liis  oycs  tunicd  then  towarda  thorn  with  u 
kiiully  cxpiessiun. 

"  Fishii)',  boys  ?"  ho  lit  hist  said. 
"Not  jiiHt    now.     Wc    hiive   l)ocn,"   said   David, 
cautiously. 

"  I  don't  sec  nny  fish.  Oucsa  yc  did  n't  have  much 
luci<.     Where  y(5  from?" 

"  O,  we  canio  from  over  by  Sackctt's  Harbor,"  ttaid 
David. 

"Sackctt'8  Harbor!  Why,  that's  a  hmj?  ways 
from  here.  Ye  must  be  lost,  I  guess,"  and  he  laughed 
quietly. 

"  We  are  a  little  mixed  just  now,"  said  David. 
"  We  'd  like  to  get  to  Clayton,  if  we  only  knew  the 
direction.     Perhajjs  you  can  help  us." 

"  1  can.     It's  about  twelve  miles  from  here." 
"Then  we're  a  long  way  out  of  our  course,"  said 
Elijah. 

"  What 's  yer  course  ?  "  asked  the  str  mgcr. 
"That's  it,"  said  David.    "  Wc  want  to  go  there 
and  SCO  a  Mr.  Reese." 

"  O,  ye  want  to  see  him,  do  ye  ?"  and  the  stranger 
looked  pleased.  "  He 's  a  likely  man,  fair  and  square 
too.     No  smuggling,  no  Tory  about  him." 

"There  isn't  about  us,  cither,"  suid  David,  eu- 
couraged  by  his  words. 

"  Well,  1  guess  that 's  so,"  said  the  stranger.  "  I 
did  n't  know  when  I  first  see  ye  but  ye  were  some  of 


I 


n 


AN  ADDITIOM 


19t 


in  N\  ith  u 

I    David, 

ivo  nmch 

lor,"  said 

ng   wnys 
;  laughed 

d   David, 
knew  the 

0." 

rsc,"  said 

go  there 

!  stranger 
nd  square 

>avid,  en- 

nger.    "  I 
•e  some  of 


those  poslcy  snuigglera.    These  ishinds  are  just  full  of 
them." 

David  looked  at  Rlijali  inquiringly.  Should  he  tell 
the  stranger  of  their  experiences?  They  hardly  knew 
what  to  do.  JJiit  they  hegan  again  at  their  breakfast, 
in  which  they  invited  the  stranger  to  join.  As  ho 
already  had  eaten,  ho  only  took  a  little,  and  continued 
his  talk  with  the  boys.  His  kindly  ways  and  evident 
dislike  of  the  smugglers  so  encouraged  the  boys,  that 
they  decided  to  tell  him  a  part  of  their  story.  The 
striinger  listened  with  evident  interest. 

"  1  'vc  lived  in  these  parts  nigh  on  to  thirty  year. 
1  know  these  islands  as  wtdl  as  anybody  can,  I  guess. 
Help  ye?  well  I  ratluM-  guess  I  will." 

"  Where  do  you  live?"  inipiired  Rlijah. 

"  O,  over  there,"  said  the  man,  pointing  with  his 
thumb  over  his  shoulder. 

♦'  I  should  think  your  family  woidd  get  lonesome 
here,"  said  David. 

The  stranger's  face  became  clouded,  and  a  dark 
scowl  came  over  it.  "  1  have  n't  any  family,"  he 
said  finally.  "H  yon  were  to  speak  to  Mr.  Reese  of 
the  Hermit,  I  think  he  'd  know  who  was  meant,"  and 
he  smiled,  sadly  it  seemed  to  David. 

"  Do  you  live  here  all  alone  ?  "  inquired  Henry. 

"Mostly.  Except  when  some  young  fellows  like 
you  come  to  see  me.  My  story  's  worse  than  yours," 
he  said  in  a  low  tone.    "  Perhaps  I  '11  tell  ye  about  it 


.ai8!!waw»^fSSog/iia"iirv,j.j(Mit«u»iitiiMiiiiii»iB 


I^WI^UIIW  Jfii>wi- 


T 


128 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


by  and  by.  Did  you  see  anything  o'  smugglers  an 
yc  come  down?  But  you  wouldn't  know  'cm  if  }0U 
did  see  'em,"  he  added,  after  a  minute's  pause. 


"  We  do  know  'em, 


and   we   did   see    'cm,"   said 


David.  And  then  he  told  him  all  about  their  jour- 
ney and  the  experiences  they  had  had,  not  omitting 
their  visit  to  the  smuggler's  cave. 

He  listened  with  close  attention  to  all  that  was  told 
him  and  then  said:  "  I  've  known  some  places  where 
they  kept  things,  but  I  never  knew  of  this  one  before. 
Is  it  far  from  here  ?" 

"No,"  said  Elijah,  'it's  right  over  there,"  and  he 
pointed  to  the  island  they  had  left. 

"  Where  'd  ye  leave  those  men,  did  ye  say  ?  "  he 
asked.  , 

"  0,  it  was  way  back  yonder,"  and  David  pointed 
away  to  the  northwest,  "It  must  be  as  much  as 
seven  or  eight  miles  from  here." 

"  Well,  they  '11  be  here  to-day,  I  guess,"  said  the 
stranger.  "  Probably  it  was  a  meet  they  were  goin' 
to  have  on  that  island,  where  ye  first  landed.  Well, 
boys.  I  think  ye  better  go  home  with  me  to-day.  Per- 
haps I  can  help  ye  with  the  findin'  o'  the  Osprey. 
But  I  guess  we  'd  better  take  a  look  at  that  place  o' 
the  smugglers  before  we  go  home." 

The  boys  gladly  responded,  and,  going  down  to  their 
boat,  they  were  soon  joined  by  their  new  acquaintance 
in  his  light  little  skiff,  that  sat  upon  the  water,  the 
perfection  of  beauty  and  grace. 


*5i!jjijj_Vr^S 


"^sgS5^ 


gglers  an 
m  if  jou 

ra,"   said 
icir  jour- 
omitting 

;  was  told 
CCS  where 
uc  before. 

,"  and  he 

say  ?  "  he 

d  pointed 
much  as 

'  said  the 
vere  goin' 
)d.  Well, 
lay.  Per- 
ic  Osprey. 
at  place  o' 

fu  to  their 
luaintanco 
water,  the 


AN  ADDITION 


129 


They  soon  reached  the  island  where  they  had  passed 
the  night,  and  stationing  Henry  as  guard,  who  was  to 
whistle  if  he  saw  any  signs  of  approaching  boats,  they 
entered  the  gorge,  and,  led  by  Elijah,  soon  came  to 
the  place  where  he  had  found  the  smugglers'  stores. 

Tlie  stranger  looked  at  everything  attentively,  and 
then  said :  "  Those  things  have  n't  been  here  long. 
Ye  see  they  bring  'cm  over  from  the  other  side,  or 
else  land  'em  here  from  the  Osprey  and  such  craft, 
and  then  these  fishermen  from  Clayton  and  Cape  Vin- 
cent come  out  and  take  'em  back  and  dispose  of  'em. 
Mighty  queer  catches  those  fishermen  get  sometimes." 

And  he  chuckled,  as  he  added :  "  They  may  find  it 
a  little  difiicult  to  land  this  catch.  Mebbe  it  wa'n't 
hooked  as  it  ought  to  have  been.  But  we'll  leave 
everything  here  just  as  we  found  it,  and  go  to  my 
house  for  a  spell.  Ye  can't  do  anything  to-day, 
unless  ye  want  to  go  and  see  Mr.  Reese,"  and  he 
looked  inquiringly  at  David. 

"  I  guess  we  won't  go  there  to-day,  anyhow,"  said 
David.  "  You  know  all  about  the  river,  and  that  was 
all  we  wanted  to  learn  from  Mr.  Reese." 

"Well,  come  on  then.  Let's  be  goin',"  said  the 
stranger,  and  he  led  the  way  back  to  where  the  boats 
were.  Henry  had  not  seen  any  sign  of  the  smugglers, 
and  there  was  nothing  save  their  own  voices  and  the 
cries  of  some  birds  to  break  the  silence  of  the  great 
river. 


'    0 

:       S 


m 


TllK  SKAUCIi   FOU  ANDUKW   I-IKLD 


The  strancrcr  led  the  way,  and  they  were  soon 
sweeping  on  with  the  current  down  the  stream  Ihe 
boys  put  up  their  sail,  and  yet  with  that  to  help  heu 
o-u-s  they  found  it  dilV.cult  to  keep  up  with  the  l.ttle 
skilT,  so  powerful  were  the  strokes  of  the  stranger  as 

he  led  the  way. 

«  I  wonder  who  he  can  he,"  said  Elijah  in  a  low 
tone  "  1  hope  he's  all  right.  1  dont  just  like  the 
idea' of  spending  a  day  in  a  stranger's  1-";^  espe- 
cially here  among  these  smugglers,"  he  added,  after  a 
minute's  silence. 

»  Well  we  've  got  to  trust  somchody,  and  he  cer- 
tainly do'esn't  love  these  smugglers.     That's  in  h.s 

favor,"  replied  David.  ..  ,     ,  „,i 

"  That 's  all  good,  and  he  looks  besides  as  if  he  had 
had  trouble  himself.     Did  you  notice  his  face  when 
we  were  telling  how  they  took  Andrew  1  ' 
«  Yes,  btit  all  that 's  in  his  favor." 
But  the  boys  were  working  too  hard  to  keep  up 
with  the  stranger  now,  to  waste  any  breath  in  conver- 
sation.   He  had  now  changed  his  course  and  seemed 
to  be  going  eastward,  as  well  as  they  could  judge 
The  islands  were  so  numerous  here,  and  the  cumnt 
in  xnany  places  swept  them  so  swiftly  on,  that  they 
had  not  the  slightest  idea  where  they  were. 

In  a  little  time,  the  stranger  turned  towards  one  o 
a  little  group  of  islands,  all  nearly  of  the  same  size  and 
appearance.    They  all  seemed  to  be  thickly  covered 


T 


I."VZ 


AN  ADDITION 


vcro  soon, 
sam.  The 
help  their 
,  the  little 
itrangci-  as 

11  in  a  low 
at  like  the 
lOuse,  espe- 
dcd,  after  a 

mA  he  cer- 
lat  's  in  his  ' 

as  if  he  had 
J  face  •when 

to  keep  up 
th  ill  couvcr- 

and  seemed 
could  judge. 
I  the  current 
on, that  they 
re. 

)\vards  one  of 
same  size  and 
ickly  covered 


with  trees  and  there  was  nothing  to  indicate  that  any 
human  being  dwelt  on  any  of  them.  The  burning 
sun,  which  was  now  high  in  the  air,  the  swiftness  of 
the  current,  the  unbroken  silence  over  all,  combined 
to  render  the  boys  silent  and  thoughtful.  They  did 
not  speak,  but  grounded  their  boat  near  the  other,  and 
stepped  upon  the  shore. 

The  kindly  voice  of  their  guide,  and  the  pleasing 
way  in  which  he  spoke  of  their  rowing  on  that  hot 
summer  day,  served  to  reassure  the  boys,  and  with 
lighter  hearts  they  followed  him  as  he  started  toward 
the  interior  of  the  island. 

"  I  don't  believe  you  boys  could  find  my  house  if 
you  tried  all  day,"  said  he,  as  they  walked  along 
together. 

"I  don't  see  any  signs  of  it  now,  anyway,"  said 
David. 

"And  yet  its  right  here  before  your  eyes." 
"  Where  ?  "  said  the  boys  together. 
And  leading  the  way  within  the  brush,  they  saw, 
entirely  concealed  from  the  view  of  any  one  who 
might  be  passing,  a  small  house  built  of  logs. 

The  four  posts  of  the  house  were  trees  left  standing 
as  they  had  grown,  and  with  their  branches  only  cut 
away  to  make  room  for  the  building.  The  logs  that 
made  the  sides,  were  covered  over  with  branches  of 
fir,  and  branches  of  the  same  tree  also  served  to  con- 
ceal the  roof,  which  was  thatched. 


jliill>l«4t.,»...»<*!j  JgJUlBWH  ■ 


132 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


The  sti-aiigcr  led  the  way  around  to  one  side,  nnd 
through  a  door  only  large  enough  to  admit  of  their 
entrance  they  stepped  inside  the  house. 

A  large  dog  leaped  up  to  meet  his  master,  and 
looked  with  suspicious  eyes  towards  the  strangers.  A 
couple  of  kittens,  asleep  before  their  master's  return 
•^  by  the  fireplace,  rose,  and  stretched,  and  yawned,  as 
they  came  in.  A  little  fire  was  still  on  the  hearth, 
evidently  the  remains  of  that  by  which  the  stranger 
had  cooked  his  breakfast. 

Rude  chairs  and  tables  were  in  the  room,  and  a 
ladder  which  led  to  the  chamber  above.  A  little  rude 
cradle  was  in  one  corner,  covered  with  quaint  little 
quilts,  evidently  the  work  of  patient  hands.  The  boys 
looked  at  this,  and  then  smiled  at  one  another,  but 
said  nothing.  The  stranger  saw  their  glances  fol- 
lowing the  sight  of  the  cradle,  and  his  face  became 
grave  at  once,  but  he  made  no  remark. 

He  patted  the  dog's  head  and  spoke  some  quiet 
words  to  the  kittens,  and  then,  turning,  said  pleasantly 
to  the  boys :  — 

"  Well,  we  're  home  at  last.  I  did  n't  do  the  fishin' 
I  intended  to,  but  I  guess  I  can  do  more  'n  that  if  I 
help  you.  And  I  guess  I  can,"  he  added  cheerfully. 
"Now  let's  sit  down  and  we'll  get  somethin'  to  eat, 
and  then  we'll  talk  about  your  trip.  What  do  you 
propose  to  do  first?" 


"SaSS?^ 


■JW.'<»U"' 


.  A    ■ 

f 

\ 

) 

«, 

THE  HERMIT'S  STOUY 

Ids 

side,  find 

it  of  their 

aster,  and 
angers.  A 
er's  return 
yawned,  as 
he  hearth, 
le  stranger 

)om,  and  a 
little  rude 
uaint  little 
The  hoys 
nother,  hut 
fiances  fol- 
ace  hccainc 

some  quiet 
1  pleasantly 

0  the  fishin' 
'n  that  if  I 
cheerfully, 
thin'  to  eat, 
hat  do  you 


CHAPTER  XV 

THE    hermit's   STOUY 

DAVID  recalled  the  warning  Mr.  Potter  had 
given  him,  that  ho  should  tell  of  his  plans 
no  more  than  he  should  find  necessary,  and  that  he 
should  he  especially  careful  with  strangers.  He 
looked  at  the  old  man,  who  sat  silently  stroking  his 
long  white  heard,  and  occasionally  running  his  hand 
through  his  hair,  as  long  and  white  as  his  beard. 

The  face  he  saw  reassured  him  somewhat,  and  yet 
he  could  not  tell  very  much,  for  he  had  iio  very  defi- 
nite plans  formed.  They  had  been  so  bMsy  in  getting 
out  of  the  clutches  of  the  smugglers,  and  had  lost 
their  way  so  completely,  that  he  felt  he  was  in  a 
quandary. 

"  We  'd  like  to  get  over  to  Clayton.  We  have  no 
very  definite  plans,  only  we  want  to  help  Andrew  off 
from  the  Osprey;  we  know  she  is  bound  for  Kings- 
ton, but  she  won't  go  there  for  some  time  yet.  We 
thought  we  'd  cruise  around  here  for  a  few  Cays,  and 
if  we  did  n't  get  any  chance  to  help  him,  we  'd  go 
over  to  Kingston  and  wait.  If  you  can  direct  us  to 
Clayton,  we  shall  be  very  glad,"  said  David. 


I 


134  THE  SEAKCIl   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

The  hennit  smiled,  and  was  silont  and  thoughtful 
for  a  lew  xninutes.     Then,  turning  again  to  Pand 
ho  said  pleasantly,  "1  s'posc  you  boys  are  a  h    Ic 
^vary  of  a  stranger.   You  don't  even  know  n»y  name, 
he  added.     He  smiled  again,  as  he   saw  the  bo  s 
slightly  confused,  and  showing  in   then-  fuecs  the 
truth  of  his  surmise. 

"  Wall,  I  don't  blame  ye.  But,  boys,  1  've  a  mn.d 
to  help  ye.  I  believe  ye  can  get  your  brother  out 
of  the  clutches  of  those  fellows."  ,    ,,     „ 

David's  face  brightened.  His  conndence  had  been 
restored  by  the  stranger's  evident  sympathy  and,  lost 
as  they  w  re,  he  knew  they  must  be  helped  by  some 
one  'we  surely  have  no  cause  to  be  susjncious 
of  you,"  replied  David.  "You've  been  very  kmd  to 
„8,  and  we  shall  be  only  too  glad  of  your  help. 

"I  never  saw  your  brother,  but  I've  had  some  ex- 
perience with  the  British  myself."     Hi«  face  became 
grave  and  his  eyes  grew  hard  as  ho  spoke. 
'"Is  that  so?  "said  David.    "What  was  xt?   Would 

you  mind  telling  us  'i"  ^  ^     ,^  .  lu   ^,,^1, 

^  "No;  though  it's  something  I  don't  talk  much 
about.  But  then,"  he  added,  with  his  quaxnt  sm.le 
again  appearing,  "I  don't  have  many  neighbors  round 

'"Ctu  btcame  silent,  and  after  a  short  pause 
the  hermit  began  his  story. 

uMy  people  settled  near  Albany  down  on  the  Hud- 


Jill.  i.<mmMri«iiiw.i^iirii-r-i —»-.-«««»«»■»*«»»-- 


loughtful 
,0  David, 
e  a  little 
ly  name," 
the  boys 
faces  the 

ve  a  mind 
lotlicr  out 

3  had  been 
r,  and,  lost 
d  by  some 
suspicious 
jry  kind  to 
iclp." 
d  some  ex- 
ace  became 

it?   Would 

talk  much 
uaint  smile 
hbors  round 

short  pause 

on  the  Hud- 


TlIE   IIKUMIT'8  STOUY 


135 


8on.  Tlmt's  a  great  river,  but  it  isn't  so  beautiful 
ns  this  St.  Lawrence.  We  had  come  from  New 
IIaiui)shirc  when  1  was  a  baby,  and  1  don't  remember 
tlir  journey  at  all." 

"My   father   came   from   Vermont,"  said   David, 
"but  only  ten  years  ago." 

"Well,  we  settled  near  Albany.  It  was  a  hard 
life,  and  my  father  broke  down.  He  had  chills,  and 
fever,  and  rheumatism;  sometimes  he  wasn't  out 
of  bed  for  weeks.  I  was  the  only  boy,  and  as  I  grew 
up  the  work  fell  more  and  more  on  me.  When  the 
war  of  the  Revolution  broke  out  my  father  was  a 
strong  Whig.  1  was  then  only  eighteen  years  old, 
but  my  father  wanted  me  to  enlist,  and  I  wanted  to, 
too." 

'"  Why  did  n't  you,  then  ?  "  asked  Elijah. 
"I  couldn't  leave  home  very  well.  What  with 
father  sick  and  no  one  but  women  in  the  house, 
it  wasn't  safe;  but  I  still  did  a  little,"  he  added. 
"  I  'd  go  fer  a  month  and  serve  in  the  army»  and  then 
come  home.  There  was  a  lot  of  men  who  did  that. " 
"  I  don't  see  how  they  could  depend  on  the  army, 
if  the  men  were  likely  to  have  to  go  home  every 
month,"  said  David. 

"They  couldn't  very  much;  but  when  we  were 
there,  we  worked  hard  enough  to  make  up  for  it. 
Well,  things  worked  on  till  by  and  by  Ccneral 
Burgoyne  came  along  with  his   army.     You  know 


TlIK  SEARCH   von  AN'DKKW   FIKI.D 

hi«  plan  was  to  take  an  niiny  an.l  come  ftoni  Canada, 
ami  another  army  was  lo  .••muc  up  the  lln.ls.m  from 
New  York  to  All)any  an.l  meet  him,  and  between 
them  they  weri;  to  sweep  the  fiehl  clean," 

"Yea,  I  ve  heard  of  that,"  said  David.     "Hut  it 

didn't  work."  ,  .,  '   t.    r  i . 

"No,  Imt  some  thinfrs  did.  Well,  while  the  fight- 
ing  was  going  on  around  Stillwater  and  Saratoga  1 
was  in  the  army  most  of  the  time.  Burgoync  had 
a  lot  of  Indians,  -  that 's  what  he  called  'cm,  -  I 
called  'cm  fiends.  Whenever  they  had  a  fight,  these 
Indians  would  go  to  scalping  the  dead.  Boys,  I 
can't  tell  ye  all,"  and  the  hermit,  with  his  face 
strangely  working,  was  silent  for  a  time. 

After  a  brief  pause  he  began  again:  "When  I  was 
at  Bennington  I  heard  them  tell  how  a  beautiful  gul 
over  by  Fort  Edward,  named  Jane  M'Crea,  had  been 
killed  and  scalped;  it  made  my  blood  boil,  I  tell 
you.  My  time  was  up  then,  and  I  started  fer  home 
through  the  woods,  nervous  like  fer  my  folks  as  they 

were  all  alone." 

Again  he  was  silent  for  a  few  minutes,  and  the 
boys  looked  sympathizingly  from  him  to  one  another. 

«  Well,"  resumed  the  hermit,  "  when  1  got  home  1 
found  that  on  the  very  day  the  Indians  had  killed 
and  scalped  Jane  M'Crea  some  others  had  been 
killed  and  scalped  too." 

"  Who  were  they  ? "  asked  Elijah,  softly. 


ul 


1 


TIIK    lir.UMlT'S   STOKV 


i:i7 


1  Oanndii, 
Isoii  from 
I  Itotwccn 

"  But  it 

the  fight- 
■Saratoga  I 
goync  had 
I  'cm, —  I 
ight,  iheso 
1.  Boys,  I 
;h  his  face 

Vhcn  I  was 
autiful  girl 
a,  had  been 
boil,  1  tell 
d  fer  home 
.Iks  as  they 

es,  and  the 
me  another, 
got  home  1 
I  had  killed 
B  had  been 


"My  father  and  moUx^-  and  two  little  sirtters.  (> 
bovs,  I  never  .iin  t.i:  you  about  that  day!  My 
mother  was  the  best  woman  in  all  this  world,  and 
th.y  had.rt  siuvred  even  her,  and  the  two  little 
sisters  I  had.  I  went  back  to  where  my  home  was, 
and  there  was  nothing  but  a  black  spot  of  ashes  and 
charcoal.  Some  friends  had  con»e  and  buried  the 
dead,  so  that  when  I  got  there  1  had  almost  nothing 

in  the  world."  ,, 

"What  awful  devils  those  Indians  were,     said 

David. 

"  Well,  do  you  know,  I  did  n't  find  it  in  my  heart, 
sad  as  I  was,  to  blame  the  Indians  so  much.  They 
didn't  know  any  better;  that  was  the  way  they 
always  did  in  war.  But  I  did  blame  the  British; 
that  they,  who  were  of  the  same  stock  that  we  were, 
should  let  loose  on  their  own  brothers  such  incarnate 
fiends  as  those  Indians,  seemed  to  me  to  be  a  good 
deal  worse  than  the  ignorant  savages  ever  could  be. 

"That's  so,"  said  David.  "Whenever  I  have 
heard  about  it,  1  never  could  understand  how  they 
could  have  done  it.  Since  Andrew  has  been  taken, 
I  know  a  little  more,  though.     What  did  you  do  ?  " 

"I  couldn't  do  much  of  anything;  I  was  dazed, 
and  almost  crazy.  I  did  go  to  General  Gates  and 
asked  him  what  he  would  do;  but  he  was  such  a 
pompous  little  weakling -why  I'd  as  soon  go  to 
my  dog  here  as  to  him!" 


•«£ilWJ«aNiiii*Mlili> 


TIIK   SKAKCII    I'OU    ANDUKW    I'IKM) 


"But  didn't  lio  do  auytliin<;  or  Hiiy  anythini?   nt 

nil?" 

"  V(>8,  he  wroto  a  letter.  You  hci;  ho  iiuuiy  others 
had  HiilTored,  that  the  feolinij;  was  getting  miglify 
strong.  O  yes,  (lonoral  Gates,  the  little  dandy,  sat 
down  and  wrote  a  letter  to  (Seneral  Burgoyue." 

"What  did  he  say?" 

"0,  he  told  how  more  limn  a  hundred  men, 
women,  and  children  had  been  killed  by  the  nillians 
Burgoync  had  hired." 

"  What  did  Burgoyno  do  ?  " 

"Nothin'.  Over  in  England  there  was  a  man 
named  Burke  who  called  the  Indians  'gentle  hyenas.' 
1  never  saw  any  hyenas;  but  if  they're  worse 'n 
Indians,  I  don't  care  to.  But  Burgoync  could  n't 
keep  'em  in  a  bit;  it  was  Indian  natur',  ye  sec." 

All  sat  silently  for  a  little  while.  Then  David 
said,  "  Well,  you  have  as  good  cause  —  better  too 
than  I  —  not  to  love  these  British." 

"'^,  but  I  have  n't  told  ye  all  yet.  There  's  some- 
thing worse  yet." 

"  Worse  yet  ?  "  asked  David,  in  a  tone  of  surprise. 

"  Yes,  a  good  deal  worse.  I  stayed  round  Saratoga 
for  a  time  and  fought  in  the  army.  But  I  had  an- 
other sister;  she  and  I  was  all  there  was  left  of  our 
family.  SIkj  had  married  a  Presbyterian  minister 
down  in  New  Jersey.  She  wanted  me  to  come  down 
there,  and  after  a  time  I  went.     Her  husband  could 


■•-tnj 


«MM 


■»«« 


TIIK   IIKUMII'S  STOUY 


i:;!) 


y  otlu'iH 

ini^'lity 

luly,  Silt 


kI    men, 
nitlianB 


a  man 
hyenas.' 
worse  'n 
could  n't 

CO." 

n   David 
otter  too 

's  Bome- 

surprise. 
Saratoga 
had  an- 
ift  of  our 
minister 
nie  down 
nd  could 


finht  as  well  as  preach;  ho  was  brave  as  a  lion,  and 
one!  of  the  stronj^'est  men  I  ever  knew.  \V(!ll,  ymi 
know,  perhaps,  the  IJritish  were  pretty  thick  around 
there.  It  was  near  Now  York,  and  thcri;  were  lots 
of  Conliiunital  troops  in  New  JtM-sey  too.  Wusliiuji- 
ton  had  his  quarters  at  Morristown,  and  used  to  do 
all  he  could  to  protect  the  j)eo])le.  One  time  the 
IJritish  thought  he  was  goin'  to  make  a  move;  so 
they  sent  a  lot  of  Hessians  up  to  check  him." 

"  Hessians  ?     What  were  they  ?  "  inf,uired  Henry. 

"0,  they  were  some  men  King  Georgo  and  liJs 
henchmen  hired  to  commit  murder  over  here.  They 
were  so  busy  making  war  with  other  countries,  and 
were  so  angry  at  the  Colonies  for  bothering  them  at 
such  a  time,  that  they  got  a  lot  of  men  from  Hesse, 
in  Germany,  to  come  over  here  and  tight  for  them. 
They  were  a  beastly  lot.  They  could  n't  speak  a 
word  of  English,  and  for  cruelty  they  could  beat 
the  Indians  themselves.  I  think  the  Americans 
hated  the  Hessians  a  good  deal  worse  than  they  did 
the  Indians,  for  they  were  white. 

"Well,  one  day  a  body  of  these  Hessians  were 
marching  to  meet  Washington,  and  they  halted  in  the 
village  whei'e  my  sister  lived.  She  was  standing  in 
the  doorway  with  her  baby  in  her  arms  —  "  Here 
the  hermit  halted  in  his  story  and  again  was  silent. 

When  he  resumed,  he  pointed  to  the  cradle  the 
boys  had  seen  when  they  first  entered  his  house, 


140 


Tin:  SKARCII   FOR   ANDUKW   FIKM) 


iind  Hilid:  "That  crfxllo  nvor  ihcro  waw  lu'v  Iml.y's. 
I  iiuulf  it  nivM.'ir,  ivml  it  was  llionjrlit  t(.  1m^  »  >rn«iit 
picc!  of  W(.ik.      Many  n  tinu    I  'vc  incl^od  l..-r  littlo 
tot  to  Bleep  in    it  wlien   tlie   moHier  wuh    at   work. 
Well,  that  (lay  she  hI.mhI  in  tlie  .loorwny  holding  1m'«- 
baby  in  her  arms.     One  of  those  niseally  IleHKinns 
raised  his  «.Mni,  —  and  what  do  you  supiiose  he  diil  ?  " 
The  hoys  wero  silent;  they  know  what  was  eouiinjr. 
"  Ho  shot  her,  —  shot  hor  and  her  hahy,  too.     O 
what  times  those  wore!"  frroaned  the  hermit.    "Men 
were  not  men,  they  wore  beasts.     The  people,  1  tell 
you,  were  stirred  up  as  the  Hessians  marched  on. 
My  sister's  husband,  ho  just  roused  them,  and    led 
the  men  on ;  they  had  no  wadding,  and  he  just  ran 
into  the  church  an.l  lirought  out  an  armful  of  tune- 
books.      'Give  'em  Watts,  boys!   give  'em  Watts!' 
said  he.     You  see  Watts  was  the  man's  name  that 
wrote  those  tunes.      Well,   my  hrother   in  law,  ho 
was  shot  a  few  months  later,  —  shot  by  a  sentinel. 
They  all  hated  him,  did  those  Britishers;  and  while 
they  said  it  was  a  mistake  of  their  picket,  I  believe 
they  did  it  on  purpose. 

"1  was  more  crazy  than  ever  then.  I  went  into 
the  army,  and  did  n't  stay  for  a  month  this  time,  but 
I  stayed  till  it  was  through.  And  boys,"  he  added, 
"when  I  was  at  Yorktown,  when  Cornwallis  surren- 
dered, if  you  'd  been  alive  then,  I  think  you  could 
have  heard  my  yell  of  delight  way  up  here.     I  stood 


'^,. 


■Mmmmum 


■  Imlty'a. 
a  ^n■<'!lt 
icr  IKtlo 
it  work. 
Idinj?  licr 

u'di.lT' 
I  coming. 
,  too.  O 
t.  "Men 
;)lc,  1  tell 
•clicd  on. 

and    led 

just  ran 
1  of  tnne- 

W.itts!' 
lumc  that 
1  law,  he 

sentinel, 
and  while 

I  believe 

went  into 
I  time,  but 
he  added, 
lis  surren- 
you  could 
.     I  stood 


#' 


TIIK   IIKUMIT'S   STORY 


141 


it  nil  right  till  the  war  wiis  over,  and  then  I  did  n't 
know  what  to  do  with  myself.  1  just  ftdt  as  if  I'd 
nothing  worth  livin'  for.  Wo  I  came  away  up  hero 
after  a  little,  and  1  've  been  here  ever  since." 

"  I  suppose  you  hate  the  Uritish  worse  'n  ever, 
now,"  said  Klijah. 

"No.  I  had  hard  feelin's  for  a  Mme,  Imt  I  reckon 
there  's  One  will  judge  'em  rig?'  1  can't  do  it. 
However,"  ho  said,  after  a  moment's  pausj,  "I 
guess  it  does  n't  go  agin  the  grain  any  foi  mo  t  >  help 
ye  get  your  brother  out  of  their  clute!  es;  ami  I  don't 
believe  ye  '11  be  afeard  to  trust  me  a  little  now,  will 
ye?  A  little  bit,"  he  added,  with  the  quaint  smi:-^, 
again  appearing  on  his  face. 

"We  were  n't  much  afraid  any  time,"  siud  I  ^vid, 
as  the  hermit  rose  and  left  the  house. 


■" — ^ 


MMMMMMiMAMiMMi 


m 


THE  SEAKCll  FOR  ANDUEW   TIELl) 


CHAPTER  XVI 

ANOTHER  BOAT 

THE  boys  in  silence  looUed  at  one  another.  The 
hermit's  story  had  touched  their  hearts,  and 
now  that  he  had  gone  out  and  left  thorn  alone,  they 
had  little  desire  for  conversation. 

"  What  fools  we  were  to  feel  afraid  of  him !  said 
David,  rising  and  going  to  the  window.  He  looked 
down  the  long  sweep  of  the  St.  Lawrence.  He  could 
see  eddies  here  and  there  in  the  swift  current,  and 
>vherever  he  turned  his  gaze,  he  beheld  islands,  some 
bare  and  rocky,  and  some  green  and  fertile. 

He  was  thinking  of  the  hermit's  story  as  he  stood  by 
the  window.  "  Poor  man,"  thought  he, "  he  has  had  a 
sad  experience.  T  don't  wonder  that  he  wanted  to  run 
away  from  it  all,  and  get  down  here  where  everything 
is  so  quiet.  It  doesn't  look  much  like  smugglers  or 
British  here.  I  wonder  where  Andrew  is,  and  if 
father  is  no  worse,  and  how  mother  is  getting  on. 

And  with  a  sigh  David  turned  as  he  saw  the  hermit 
coming  up  from  the  shore.  The  sun  was  just  setting, 
and  in  the  evening  glow,  as  he  saw  the  bare  white 


<..s<j^  , ! 


:%■ 


iinwwmwiiiiii*- 


"^ 


ANOTHER  BOAT 


143 


thcr.  The 
earts,  and 
ilone,  tlicy 

iiim ! "  said 
He  looked 

He  could 
arrent,  and 
lands,  some 
le. 

he  stood  by 
le  has  had  a 
inted  to  run 
;  everything 
mugglers  or 

is,  and  if 
ting  on." 
V  the  hermit 
just  setting, 
;  bare  wliite 


head  of  the  old  man,  and  his  long  white  beard,  and  the 
evidences  of  sorrow  so  plain  upon  him,  his  heart  soft- 
ened. "  He  must  look  like  some  '  •■  tliose  old  patri- 
archs Elder  Dodd  was  telling  me  about.  I  guess 
Abraham  and  Moses  must  have  looked  something  like 
tliat.  O,  well,  I  hope  he  '11  be  able  to  help  us,  any- 
way," he  added,  as  the  old  man  entered  the  house. 

"  We  '11  have  some  supper  now,  boys,"  said  the 
hermit  cheerfully.  "I  think  that'll  be  better  than 
adding  my  sad  story  to  yours." 

In  a  little  ^hile  the  boys  drew  up  their  low  stools 
around  the  rude  table,  and  the  evening  meal  was  soon 
eaten. 

"I  know  these  smugglers.  I've  known  'en^for 
years.  They  look  upon  me  as  out  of  the  world,  I 
guess.  They  never  bother  me,  and  I  never  bother 
them,"  said  the  hermit. 

"Did  you  ever  know  where  they  hid  their  goods 
before  ? "  asked  Elijah. 

"  I  've  rather  suspected  I  knew.  But  I  did  n't  often 
bother  about  'em.  I  had  a  good  reason  for  going  in 
this  place  you  found." 

«  What  was  it  ?"  asked  David. 

"I'll  tell  ye  by  and  by.  Guess  we  better  go  to 
bed  now,  and  talk  over  our  plans  in  the  mornin'. 
Our  heads  '11  be  clearer  tlien,  and  we  can  see  some 
things  that  don't  look  very  plain  now."  And  he  led 
the  way  up  the  ladder  to  tlie  room  above. 


«55^ 


■MMMT 


1         ■' 


I- 


144  THE  SEARCH  FOtt  ANDKEW  FIEU> 

He  ,,„a  no  candle,  and  iu  tl,c  dim  If  f  "'«  ^^ta^ 
f,™t  could  make  little  of  the  room  >"=«•    ^'^  "  ^ 
.„it  remained  only   for  a  few  m.nates    though 
Btonned  to  talk  a  little  before  he  «ent  helow 

•Tthink  rU  sleep  below.  I  most  ahvajB  do.  and 
J^,  ,vi«,  the  dog,  it'll  do  no  harm  to  be  on  guard 
Tlittl     You  can  »ee  now,  can't  ye?"  he  add  d^ 

:*»,!  can  Bce  some  now,"  re„lied  Pavid.    "  "Wlvere 
shall  we  sleep?    On  the  floor?    1  don't  see  any  beds 
Cermit  turned  to  the  side  of  the  room  and  le 
down  something  like  a  shelf.    "  Tl>esc  go  all  round 
•  thfroom     A   ot  could  sleep  here.    My  brother  m 

.>'^    -t  ladbeen  in  Palestine  once  (.hat's  the  Holy  U,u  , 
••  ■'^j^now),  and  he  said  some  of  the  houses  there  w.e 
•Cfthat  plan.    So  I  thought  beds  ou  the  «de  of    he 
house  would  be  all  right  on  the  St.  Lawrence  H.e    ,f 
the,  were  in  Palestine."    And  he  gave  each  boy  a 
heavy  blanket  and  went  down  staus. 

Early  in  the  morning,  the  boys  were  awakened  by 

the  sound  of  voices  below.    They  all  came  near  the 

laddcH,  and  listened  eagerly.  „„,„,..  „i4 

uYd*  are  out  pretty  early,  ue.ghbor  Heath,    sa,d 

tV.e  hermit.    "  What's  np  now  ? " 

.0  ™"thin'  much.    I  just  stopped  on  my  way  up 
the  river     Ye  hain't  seen  some  boys  round  anywhere, 

■■"The  tays  overhead  looked  at  one  another,  and  lis- 
Jedstarply.    The  reply  of  the  hermit  would  now 


1 


ANOTHEU  BOAT 


;  boys  at 

The  hci- 

lough  lie 

w. 

s  do,  and 

on  guard 

Idcd. 

«  Where 
my  beds." 
m,  and  let 
all  round 
brother  in 
loly  Land, 
there  were 
side  of  the 
cc  River  if 
!ach  boy  a 

I'akened  by 
le  near  the 

[eath,"  said 

my  way  up 
d  anywhere, 

her,  and  lis- 
;  would  now 


146 

They 


tell  the  story  of  his  friendship  or  opposition, 
waited  hreathiessly. 

"  Boys !  I  don't  have  boys,  —  I  wish  sometimes  I 
had,"  they  heard  the  hermit  reply.  "  What  your 
boys  been  doiu'  ?" 

"  Tliey  aiu  't  my  boys.  They  're  some  spyin'  mis- 
chief-makers. They  stove  in  a  boat  up  on  Wells 
Island.  I  guess  they  were  sent  down  here  by  some- 
body to  see  what  they  could  see." 

"Most  everybody  likes  to  see  these  islands.  I 
think  they're  wonderful." 

'*0,  you  need  n't  talk  like  that.    You  know  what  I 
mean.     I  ain't  afeard   o'  your   peachin',  but  them 
boys  we  want  to  detain  a  few  weeks.    Jest  detain,  gM| 
that's  all,  — detain  'em,  you  know." 

«  What  for  ?  "  said  the  hermit. 

"  0,  so  they  could  n't  spile  everything.  Ye  see  the 
Osprey  might  come  along  in  a  week  or  so,  and  then 
there'll  be  no  trouble.  But  if  they  should  stir  up 
the  officers  before  that  time,  1  don't  know  what '11  be 
to  pay." 

"Where's  the  Osprey  now?"  asked  the  hermit 
innocently. 

"O,  she's  over  on  the  other  shore.  But  she 's  a 
corain'  back  inside  o'  two  or  three  weeks  I  don't  mind 
tellin'  ye.  I  never  see  sech  a  man  as  you.  You  don't 
care  a  tuppence  about  money.  Well,  ye  hain't  seen 
the  boys,  ye  say  ?  "    He  waited  for  the  hermit  to  reply, 

10 


'. 


mm 


146 


TlIK  SEAHCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


and  the  boys  overhead  almost  stopped  breathing.  As 
he  said  nothing  that  they  could  hear,  they  felt  re- 
lieved when  the  loud  voice  of  the  stranger  called  out 
as  he  stood  in  the  door:  "If  yc  see  anything  on 
'em,  yc  might  come  over  and  tell  us.  It  won't  hurt 
you  any."  He  closed  the  door,  and  went  out.  The 
boys  watehcd  him  from  the  upper  room  as  he  went 
down  to  his  boat,  and,  stepping  .luickly  into  it,  was 
soon  out  of  sight  among  the  islands. 

Then  the  boys  came  down  the  ladder,  and  warmly 
greeted  their  host.  The  same  quaint  smile  w*8  on 
his  face  as  he  spoke  to  them  they  had  seen  the  day  be- 
fore, and  it  deepened  as  he  saw  the  friendly  feeling  the 
boj's  had  for  him  so  plainly  shown  upon  their  faces. 

''Had  some  mornin    callers  before  yo  were  up," 

8a><i    ^^^-  ^      .  ,       ..  Tin 

"  Yes,  we  heard  you  talking,"  said  David.  Why 
did  n't  he  see  our  boat  ?  We  left  it  right  on  the  shore 
by  yours.    If  he  'd  seen  it,  we  'd  been  goners." 

"O  1  took  pains  last  night  to  take  it  round  on 
the  other  side  of  the  island.    I  'vc  a  good  boathouse 

there  too." 

After  breakfast  the  hermit  drew  the  boys  around 
him,  and  inquired  as  to  their  further  plans.  After 
listening  to  what  David  had  to  say  about  going  over 
to  Clayton,  he  shook  his  head,  and  said,  —  ^ 

"Clayton's  a  good  twelve  mile  from  here.  Ye 
don't  know  the  way,  and  besides  I  don't  believe  Mr. 
Reese  could  tell  ye  any  more  'n  1  know.". 


•■■*..atr 


i) 


ANOTHER  BOAT 


147 


thing.  As 
ey  felt  re- 
called out 
iiything  on 
won't  hurt 
out.  Tho 
as  he  went 
into  it,  was 

\v(\  warmly 
lile  TM18  on 
the  day  be- 
f  feeling  the 
leir  faces, 
s  were  up," 

vid.    "Why 

on  the  shore 

ers." 

it  round  on 

)d  boathouse 

boys  around 
lans.  After 
it  going  over 

m  here.  Ye 
t  believe  Mr. 


"  I  think  that 's  so,"  said  David ;  " but  what  do  you 
advise  ?  " 

"Well,  it  seems  to  me,"  said  he  slowly,  "that  the 
best  plan  's  to  stay  right  hero  quiet  like  for  a  while. 
You  heard  what  my  neighbor  Heath  had  to  say  about 
the  Osprey.  Well,  I  don't  believe  he  knew  just 
where  she  is  now.  But  you  're  as  apt  to  find  her  near 
hero  as  anywhere.  Ye  see  right  over  there,"  and  he 
pointnd  to  the  east,  "  is  what 's  called  the  Lost 
Channel.  But  I  tell  you  the  Osprny  knows  how  to 
find  it,  and  I  can  almost  always  tell  when  she  or  any 
other  boat 's  coming." 

"  How  ?  "  asked  D.-xvid. 

"  Why,  there  's  the  most  wonderful  echo  you  arer 
heard  right  over  there.  H  a  man  speaks  in  a  whis- 
per, you  can  hear  it  forty  rods,  I  guess;  and  1  hear 
'em  when  they  go  through  there. " 

"Do  you  think  we'd  better  stay  right  here?    I 
thought,"  said  David,  "if  we  went  to  Clayton,  pi 
haps  we  could  get  another  boat.     We  never  can 
to  Kingston  in  this  tub  we  have." 

"So  you  can't,"  replied  the  hermit.  "But  what 
would  you  say  if  I  brought  out  a  new  boat,  cat-rigged, 
new  sail,  and  just  built  ?  " 

"  Say, "  said  David.  "  Why,  I  'd  say  you  were  the 
best  man  in  the  world  —  almost, "  he  added,  With  a 
laugli. 

"Well,  come  on  then,  and  see  for  yourselves,"  and 


r 


148  •  TllK  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

the  hermit,  rising,  led  the  way  around  to  the  other 
side  of  the  island.  There,  covered  hy  trees  and 
branches,  was  a  boathouse  built  of  logs,  very  simi- 
lar to  the  house  he  lived  in,  only  smaller. 

In  it  the  boys  saw  a  new  cat-riggcd  boat,  larger 
by  considerable  than  the  Pilot.     She  was  new  and 
^^?l^le  a  little  rough,  was   evidently  a  staneh  and 
strong  craft,  and  built  with  an  eye  to  speed. 

-Sh-'s  a  good  one,"  said  Elijah,  enthusiastically. 
"But  you  wouldn't  want  to  let  us  boys  take  her, 
and  go  over  to  Kingston,  or  cruise  round  among  the 
islands.     We  might  get  caught,  and  your  boat  get 

taken  " 

"That '8  so,"  said  the  hermit.     "She  might  get 
catched  and  1  don't  think  I  care  to  lend  her  to  a 

parcel  of  youngsters."  ,  ^  ^  ,,    •    v,«r.oa 

The  bovs'  faces  fell.     They  had  had  their  hopes 

raised  only  to  be  the  more  cast  down  when  they 

seemed  to  be  blasted. 

"No,"  said  the  hermit,  with  a  smile,      1  don  t 

helieve  1  want  to  lend  her,  but  I  rather  think  1  d 

like  to  sail  her." 

«  Sail  her  ?  what  do  you  mean  ?    Of  course  you  d 

like  to  sail  her,"  said  David. 

"Yes  1 'd  like  to  sail  her.  I  have  n't  been  out  in 
her  but  a  few  times,  and  1  think  I  'd  like  to  sail  her 
some  more.  1  think  I  'd  like  to  sail  her  to  Kings  on 
and  take  you  boys  along  for  a  crew,"  and  he  smiled 
as  he  watched  their  faces. 


he  other 
recB  and 
jry  simi- 

it,  larger 
it'W,  and, 
inch  and 

iastically. 
take  her, 
imong  the 
'  boat  get 

might  get 
i  her  to  a 

heir  hopes 
when  they 

,  "1  don't 
think  1  'd 

lurse  you  'd 

been  out  in 
I  to  sail  her 
to  Kingston 
I  he  smiled 


AXf)TIIKK  BOAT 


149 


The  hoys  were  not  slow  to  express  their  enthusiasm. 
The  old  man  watched  them  quietly,  as  they  ran 
around  the  boat,  praising  her  good  points,  and  talk- 
ing of  Iheir  proposed  trip. 

Finally  they  became  quiet  enough  for  the  hermit 
to  say,  "I  'vo  been  thinking  a  good  deal  about  this 
business  o'  yours.  I  'vo  about  made  up  my  mind 
that  we  'd  better  stay  here  for  a  few  days  and  stock 
up  the  boat,  and  get  ready  for  a  cruise.  The  Osprey 
won't  be  goin'  to  Kingston  for  some  time  yet,  and  if 
we  start  in  a  few  days,  and  go  careful  like,  we  can 
get  there  before  she  docs,  and  have  time  to  prepare 
a  welcome  for  her.  We'll  want  to  sail  mostly 
mornin's  and  nights,  and  stop  off  in  the  middle  of 
the  day,  so  's  not  to  call  attention  to  us.  And  by 
not  goin'  very  fast  we  can  get  there  in  time,  and  yet 
learn  what  we  can  on  the  way.  It  may  be  Andrew 
has  got  away  before  this." 

"I  don't  think  so,"  said  David.  "But  I  think 
your  plan  's  fine.  It  'a  just  the  thing,  and  I  don't 
know  what  we  can  do  to  show  you  our  thanks." 

"  0,  you  need  n't  do  anything.  I  'm  glad  to  have 
a  chance  to  help  you  in  such  a  work  as  this.  Como 
and  see  my  farm,  boys.  We  '11  have  time  to  see  to 
that  before  we  go." 


?«^»*s**««Wis»aasffiaswBs^ 


4-,^ 


X60  THE  SEAUCll  FUli  ANDREW  FIELU 


CHAPTER   XVII 

ANOTHER  VOYAGE  BEGUN 

THE  hermit  led  the  way  to  the  shore,  and,  bid- 
ding  the  boys  jump  into  his  skiff,  quickly 
pulled  over  to  the  nearest  island.  Here  he  landed, 
and  with  the  boys  started  inland. 

They  soon  saw  that  the  thick  evergreens  were 
only  around  the  edge  of  the  island,  which  v  .s  about 
the  size  of  the  one  on  which  he  made  his  home. 
All  the  interior  had  been  cleared,  and  laid  out  as  a 
garden.  Beds  and  rows  of  vegetables  were  there, 
and  some  rose  bushes  grew  in  one  corner. 

"  I  brought  those  roses  from  New  Jersey.  There 
was  only  one  little  root,  but  it  lived;  my  sister  had 
lots  of  them;  they  grew  all  over  one  side  of  her 

house." 

The  hermit  was  silent  and  thoughtful,  and  the  boys 
did  not  care  to  break  in  upon  his  sadness.  They 
examined  the  garden,  and  were  enough  of  farmer 
boys  to  appreciate  its  treasures. 

« I  never  saw  such  cucumbers  and  summer  squashes, 
did  you  Elijah  ? "  said  David. 


;,  and,  bid- 
.ff,  quickly    ^ 
he  landed, 

reens  were 
1  V  18  about 
!  his  home, 
lid  out  as  a 
«-ere   there, 

sey.  There 
ly  sister  had 
side  of  her 

and  the  boys 
Iness.  They 
h  of  farmer 

aer  squashes, 


ANOTHKH  VOYAGE  IlKCUN 


ini 


«No,"  replied  Elijah;  "nor  such  strawberries; 
but  it  needs  weeding." 

"Tliat's  so,  boys,  it  does,"  said  the  hermit,  who 
had  caught  the  last  word.  "And  that's  just  what 
we  came  here  for.  I  don't  want  to  go  away  and 
leave  my  garden  like  this;  but  it  won't  take  very 
long,  and  if  you  '11  help,  wc  can  start  the  sooner  for 
Kingston." 

The  boys  turned  to  the  work  with  a  will.  And  as 
they  worked  the  hermit  talked. 

«  Ye  see  these  five  islands  here  V  Well,  this  clump 
belongs  to  me.  Nobody  seemed  to  want  it,  and  I 
just  put  in  a  claim  and  got  it.  Saves  me  the  trouble 
of  fences  on  my  farm,"  he  said,  with  a  laugh,  "this 
having  every  lot  separate.  I  kept  a  cow  one  spell 
over  here,  but  I  gave  that  up.  Then  over  on  that 
island  to  the  left  I  used  to  keep  hens;  but  the  foxes 
was  too  much  for  me." 

"Foxes?     Where  did  they  come  from?"    asked 

Elijah. 

"  In  the  winter  time  they  'd  come  over  on  the  ice. 
The  bigger  islands  have  lots  of  'em.  Why,  this 
river  is  a  great  sight  in  the  winter.  You  can  drive 
right  across  from  one  side  to  the  other  with  a  horse 
and  sleigh.  And  then  the  bears  and  wolves  are  not 
wantin',  either.  I  used  to  trap  them  and  foxes,  but 
I  don't  any  more." 

"We  do  over  by  Sackett's  Harbor,"  said  David; 


, 


152 


THE   8EAKCII   FOR   /MinREW   FIELD 


"but  wc  (lun't  get  80  iniiny  as  you  do  hero.  I  s'poao 
your  firth  arc  bigger  too." 

"  Well,  wc  do  get  some  pretty  big  ones.  I  caught 
a  muscallonge  last  suunncr  that  weighed  by  the  stcel- 
yards  when  I  got  him  home  just  forty-seven  poiunls." 

"I  never  saw  such  a  big  one  as  that,"  said  David. 

"  No  ?  "  said  the  hermit.  "  When  I  got  him  in  <he 
boat  I  just  had  to  jump  right  a-st raddle  on  him  and 
hammer  his  head  with  a  hickory  club.  I  did  n't 
know  but  he  'd  smash  the  boat  all  to  pieces." 

"I  wish  we  could  get  some  now,"  said  Elijah;  but 
catching  the  look  upon  David's  lace,  he  added,  "Wc 
sha'n't  have  time,  of  course." 

"No,"  replied  the  hermit.  "I  don't  believe  wo 
will  have  time,  and  besides  it 's  a  little  early  for 
'em.  After  we  start  for  Kingston,  we  might  try  it 
when  we 're  creeping  along." 

The  boys  worked  on  busily  through  the  day.  It 
was  a  relief  to  find  something  to  do  on  shore.  The 
hermit  talked  more  and  more  freely  with  them,  and 
gave  them  many  a  story  and  fact  from  the  war  of  the 
Revolution. 

On  the  third  day  the  hermit  took  the  boys  over  to 
his  garden,  and  they  began  to  pick  some  of  the 
vegetables. 

"Some  o'  these  I  started  under  glass,"  said  he, 
as  he  found  some  unusually  large.  "  We  '11  take 
'em  over  and  store  'em  in  the  boat. " 


J) 


I  s'poso 


I  caught 
jy  tlie  stccU 
I'n  poumls." 
aid  David. 
,  him  in  tho 
311  liiin  and 

I   didn't 

Elijah;  but 
ddcd,  "Wo 

believe  wo 
c  early  for 
night  try  it 

he  day.  It 
ihoi-e.  The 
1  them,  and 
B  war  of  the 

loys  over  to 
ome  of  the 

i,"  said  he, 
We'll  take 


AXOTIIKK   VOYAGE   BEGUN 


isa 


"What  for?"  askfd  David.     .. 

"(),  I  '11  toll  yo  a  little  later.  We  want  to  gft 
rca<ly  to-day,  and  we  Ml  stock  nj)  the  boat,  and  I  want 
to  put  on  board  Bome  of  these  garden  things  that'll 
keep  for  a  while." 

The  vegetables  were  soon  added  to  the  stores 
that  were  placed  that  day  on  board  the  little  sloop. 
Everything  about  the  place  was  looked  after,  and  the 
dog,  it  was  decided,  should  go  with  them  on  the 
following  day,  for  that  was  the  time  chosen  for  their 
dopartnre. 

The  hermit's  little  skiff  was  to  be  taken  in  tow 
also.  IJhinkets  were  placed  in  the  little  cabin,  and 
everything  was  ready  for  a  voyage. 

"What  shall  wo  do  with  this  boat  wo  brought  with 
us?"  asked  Elijah. 

"It  is  n't  our  boat  only  by  a  fair  exchange,"  said 
David.  "We  '11  leave  that  here.  If  we  come  back 
we  '11  need  it,  and  if  we  don't  come  we  '11  get  along 
without  it." 

After  an  early  breakfast  on  the  next  day,  the 
little  party  s.et  sail.  The  wind  was  good,  but  it 
was  only  because  the  hermit  knew  where  the  currents 
ran  that  they  could  make  much  headway. 

They  sailed  by  the  island  where  the  smugglers'  cave 
was,  and  looked  carefully  to  see  if  there  were  any 
signs  of  men,  but  it  was  as  quiet  and  peaceful  a  sum- 
mer day  as  that  on  which  they  had  landed  there. 


■iKinniniwiimiiwiii 


hmmw 


154  TIIK  KKAUril  Foil   ANDKKW    KIKLD 

"O,  tlwy  won't  opme  inm-h  uronml  iliirt  iHliiiul," 
Hui.l  the  h.-nnit.  "Tlicy  mny  Inivo  Honu-l.ody  vu 
gimrd;  but  it's  sonic  otluT  islim.l  wlicir  we  Ml  l.c 
likrly  to  Hco  'cm  il'  wc  hc(«  'cm  iit  all.  Tlicy  nin't 
much  ulciiid  ..'  I.cin'  cau-l.t,  but  they  pi-obiibly  think 
it's  a  little  salVr  to  meet  on  some  other  Hpot,  ami 
only  come  here  when  they  want  to  bring  somcthin' 
or  take  it  nway." 

As  it  cume  on  towards  noon,  the  hermit  turnetl 
to  the  boys,  and  said,  "  1  guess  we'll  land  and  rest 
awhile.  1  don't  much  want  to  meet  them  men,  and 
if  wc  stop  awhile  in  the  middle  of  the  day,  1  think 
wc  won't  be  so  likely  to  sec  'em." 

So  they  landed,  anchoring  the  boat  about  twenty 
feet  from  the  shore,  and  landing  by  the  aid  of  the 

little  skill'. 

» If  any  o'  you  boys  is  good  at  fishin'  ye  might  try 
ycr  luck  around  here.  OIT  by  those  weeds  is  good 
fishin' ground,"  said  the  hermit. 

"Henry  's  the  lishcrman  of  the  party,"  said  David. 

"  Well,  you  and  Henry  go  out  and  try  your  luck. 

'  '  Elijah  and  1  '11  try  to  get  some  dinner  ready,  and 

we  '11  cook  your  lish.     Some  would  go  pretty  good 

now. 

So,  while  the  hermit,  with  Elijah's  aid,  was  mak- 
ing a  fire  and  preparing  some  potatoes  and  corn 
bread  for  dinner,  David  and  Henry  went  over  to  the 
place  he  had  indicated   and  began  to  fish.      They 


I 


r  til  II 


nMm 


LI) 

liiH  iHliind," 
)mclii)(ly    i>n 

MH!   \Vl'  Ml   lu' 

Tlu'v  11  i  n't 
i)hiil»ly  tliiiik 
)M'  H|)*)t,  and 
ijj;  soiiu'tliin' 

iM'uiit  <iirm'(l 

iiul  ami  ri'Ht 

cm  men,  inul 

day,  I  think 

ubout  twenty 
»e  uid  of  tho 

yc  mi>?ht  try 
vccds  is  good 

"  said  David, 
try  your  luck, 
er  ready,  and 
;o  pretty  good 

aid,  was  mak- 
oes  and  corn 
Lilt  over  to  the 
0  fish.      They 


/ 


ANOTIIKU   VOYAUK   UKlirN 


ir.f) 


found  thiMii  hungry,  and  buss  after  Wuhh  ciimo  into 

the  hoat. 

"Thia  Itcatfl  'The  Rocks*  all  to  pieces,"  said 
Henry.  "I  never  saw  such  ti  place,"  he  added,  aw 
hirt  line  liegan  again  to  cut  the  water.  "This  is 
the  biggest  one  yet,"  lie  exclaimed,  as  Ik;  rose  and 
dropped  his  r(»d  and  began  to  pull  in  the  (ish  by  the 
line.  "I  don't  s'pose  this  is  the  best  way  to  catch 
'em,  hut  I  want  the  fish  mostly  just  row,"  as  with  a 
sudden  pull  he  lifted  the  great  bass  into  the  boat. 

"'Sh,  Henry,"  said  David.  "Look  over  there  to 
your  right.  Do  you  scjc  anything  there  by  tlu;  rocks 
at  the  end  of  the  island  ?  " 

Henry  stood  for  a  moment  and  looked  carefully 
where  David  had  indicated;  but  he  could  see  nothing 

unusual. 

"1  could  almost  swear  T  saw  a  man  run  from  ono 
(»f  those  rocks  to  the  other.  I  feel  almost  sure  of 
it,"  said  David. 

Henry  looked  all  about.  He  could  sec  and  hear 
nothing  unusual. 

"I  guess  we  'd  better  go  back  to  camp,"  continued 
David.  "It  must  be  'bout  dinner  time.  Yes,  it  is," 
he  added,  as  a  faint  shout  came  from  the  camp. 

The  boys  reeled  in  their  lines,  an^'  started  to 
take  up  their  anchor. 

"Henry,  there  is  somebody  there,  right  behind 
that  big  rock.  I  just  saw  1  im  dodge  down.  He 
doesn't  want  to  be  seen,  that's  sure." 


\ 


150  THE  SEARCH   FOU  ANDREW  FIELD 

"  Who  is  it,  do  you  suppose  ?  " 

"I  dou't  know  any  more  than  you  do.  But  I 'm 
sure  he  's  been  watching  us  for  a  good  while.  I  'm 
most  afraid  it 's  for  no  good  purpose  either.  It  may 
be  he  's  one  of  the  smugglers. " 

But  bending  to  their  oars,  in  a  few  minutes  they 
weio  back  at  the  camp.  The  others  wore  highly 
pleased  at  the  catch  they  brought  in,  and  they  all 
were  soon  seated  beneath  the  trees  a  little  back  from 
the  shore,  as  they  ate  their  dinner  and  talked  over 
their  plans. 

The  hermit  looked  grave  when  David  told  him  ho 
had  seen  a  man,  and  was  sure  he  had  been  watching 
them. 

"It  may  have  been  only  a  bird  you  saw." 

"It  wasn't  a  bird,   it  was  a  man,"  said  Henry 

st  »utly. 

"Well,  all  wo  can  do  is  to  do  nothing  just  now," 
said  the  hermit.  "We  won't  put  out  till  towards 
night,  and  we  '11  keep  quiet  till  then." 

In  the  afternoon  he  told  them  more  of  his  plan. 
It  was  to  go  on  towards  Kingston,  and  to  keep  from 
being  seen  much  on  the  way.  When  they  arrived 
there,  if  the  Osprey  was  not  in,  all  they  could  do 
was  to  wait.  They  could  sleep  on  the  boat,  and 
wait  for  events. 

The  hermit  proposed  that,  when  the  Osprey  did 
come,  he  should  take  the  part  of  an  old  farmer,  and 


KLD 

o.  But  I  'm 
while.  I  'm 
her.     It  may 

minutes  they 
wore  highly 
and  they  all 
tie  back  from 
I  talked  over 

I  told  him  ho 
leen  watching 

w." 

'  said  Henry 

ig  just  now," 
till   towards 

e  of  his  plan. 

to  keep  from 

they  arrived 

;hey  could  do 

the  boat,  and 

le  Osprey  did 
d  farmer,  and 


ANOTlIi;U  VOYAGE  BEGUN 

try  to  go  on  board,  or  see  the  cook  or  steward,  and 
sell  some  of  the  vegetables  he  had  brought.  He  was 
so  positive  that  they  would  be  much  larger  than  any 
that  could  be  had  in  Kingston  that  he  was  sure  he 
could  make  a  sale. 

His  greatest  desire  was  to  get  on  board  the 
Osprey,  and  into  the  cook's  galley  if  possible. 
Then  he  could  see  Andrew  and  get  in  a  few  words  of 
conversation. 

".'  think  I  '11  take  one  of  you  boys  with  me  if  I  do 
get  on  board  the  Osprey,"  he  said.  "Henry,  you 
could  pass  for  my  boy,  could  n't  you  ?  " 

"  Sure  pop !  "  said  Henry,  with  a  laugh. 

"Boys,  there  comes  a  little  sailboat  around  that 
•Island  over  there ! "  exclaimed  Elijah,  suddenly 
pointing  to  the  no/th. 

They  all  at  onje  arose,  and  stood  watching  the 
stranger  as  she  came  rapidly  on,  evidently  headed 
for  the  island  where  they  were. 

"Boys,  that's  the  Pilot,"  said  David,  in  a  low 
tone. 

They  all  looked  carefully,  and  Elijah  responded, 
"It  is  the  Pilot,  sui  's  you  are  born."  And  with 
the  others  he  started  after  David,  and  ran  to  the 
shore. 


<rf 


I  —iiWP 


158  THE   SEARCH  I'UK  AMJUEW  i'HiLD 


CHAPTER  XVIII 


AT   KINGSTON 


ELIJAH  was  not  mistaken.  They  could  plainly 
see  on  the  bow  of  the  ai)proacliing  boat  the 
name  "  Pilot,"  which  he  himself  had  painted  there, 
though  he  would  have  known  the  boat  anywhere,  even 
if  the  name  were  gone. 

Tlie  hermit  and  the  boys  waited  upon  the  shore  for 
the  Pilot  to  approach.  Two  men  were  in  her,  one 
upon  the  bow,  and  the  other  steering,  whose  face 
was  hidden  by  the  sail. 

The  boat  came  about  when  nearer  the  shore,  and 
the  face  of  the  man  who  was  steering  could  then  be 
seen.  "It's  Smith,"  called  out  David  and  Elijah 
together. 

The  call  produced  a  marked  effect  upon  the  sailor, 
for  he  at  once  changed  the  course  of  the  boat,  and 
without  a  word  started  off  down  the  river.  "  Here  ! 
here !  you  've  got  our  boat,"  called  out  Elijah  ;  but 
the  only  response  was  a  laugh  from  Smith,  who  kept 
the  Pilot  off  from  the  island. 

Elijah  and  David  had  almost  start^^d  into  the  river 


tSiiiiiMiS 


M^MWIUMa* 


NiaOTMaitMMMe 


;a«r^'^ 


md 


ELD 


could  plainly 
liing  boat  the 
painted  there, 
ny  where,  even 

I  the  shore  for 
•e  in  her,  one 
;,  whose  face 

the  shore,  and 
could  then  be 
id   and   Elijah 

ipon  the  sailor, 
the  boat,  and 
iver.  "  Here ! 
ut  Elijah  ;  but 
nith,  who  kept 

i  into  the  river 


SmMZ'.- 


AT  KINGSTON 


169 


in  their  excitement,  but  the  voice  of  the  hermit  called 
them  back. 

"  Hold  on,  boys,  ye  can't  swim  after  her,"  said  he 
quietly.  All  that  the  boys  could  do  was  to  watch  the 
Pilot  under  full  sail,  disappearing  as  rapidly  and  as 
suddenly  as  she  had  come  into  sight. 

"  What  a  shame  !  She  's  our  boat,  and  we  could 
have  got  her,"  Elijah  said,  and  lie  shook  his  fist  at 
Smith,  who  turned  and  waved  his  hand  derisively  at 
them  as  he  went  out  of  sighi,  behind  the  nearest  island, 
"  I  think  we  'd  better  be  starting,  boys,"  said  the 
licrmit.  "  They  may  come  back,  and  we  don't  want 
to  receive  callers  just  yet." 

"  Maybe  he  'd  bring  back  the  Pilot,"  said  Henry. 
The  hermit  laughed.  "They  might,  that's  true; 
but  I  fear  they  'd  bring  her  back  full  o'  men.  They 
might  take  some  passengers  away  with  'em,  too. 
We  could  n't  do  much  against  'em.  No,  boys.  1  'm 
sorry,  b\it  we  must  not  stay  here,  and  the  sooner  we 
get  .  t  the  better."  And  the  old  man  began  to 
arrange  things  on  board  for  their  departure. 

«  She  's  a  pretty  boat,"  said  he.  "  If  she  don't  leak," 
and  he  laughed  a  little,  "  she  'd  sail  most  as  fast  as 
mine,  though  I  have  n't  any  name  for  mine." 

In  a  few  minutes  they  started.  The  boys  were  in 
no  mood  for  conversation,  and  for  miles  they  sailed 
on  in  silence. 

When  the  sun  had  set,  they  came  in  near  shore  and 


r 


160  THE  SEARCH  FOtt  ANDREW  VlhLD 

anchored  for  the  night.  The  air  was  still,  and  the 
night  was  nr.ld,  so  they  at  once  fell  in  with  Ihe 
hermit's  suggestion  that  they  should  stay  on  board 

till  morning.  ,j  ,   ..       i    „„  i 

uMv  opinion  is,"  said  he,  "that  we'd  better  keep 
a  wat'ch  to-night.     I  guess  I'm  a  little  more  used  to 
being  up  nights  than  you  are,  so  I '11  stay  awake  to- , 
night.    If  I  get  tired,  I  '11  call  one  o'  yc  to  come  and 

S|)ell  me."  ,  ^     .-,  ,       i 

"  Elijah  m.kes  a  good  guard,"  said  David  laugh- 
ingly, as  he  saw  him  color  a  little  at  the  recalling  of 
his  night  at  the  smugglers' cave.  ^^ 

"  Well,  I  '11  call  him  then  if  I  want  to  sleep,    said 

the  hermit. 

But  they  were  not  molested  that  night.  And  on 
the  following  day  they  saw  no  one.  They  anchored 
a.rain  the  next  night,  and  Elijah  insisted  upon  stand- 
i,'g  guard.  No  one  accused  him  of  having  been 
asleep  on  duty,  for  no  one  waked  up  to  sec. 

*'  We'll  get  into  Kingston  to-day,"  said  the  hermit, 
» if  we  have  no  bad  luck.  It 's  been  some  time  since 
1  've  been  there,  but  I  feel  pretty  sure  o'  my  bearings. 

In  the  afternoon  they  came  in  sight  of  the  Cana- 
dian town.  They  talked  over  their  plans  for  the 
immediate  future,  and  decided  that  they  would  not 
approach  through  the  harbor,  but  would  enter  at  one 
side,  and  then  make  some  inquiries  as  to  the  where- 
aljouts  of  the  Osprey. 


^ 


F.LD 

still,  and  the 

in  with  Ihc 

iay  on  board 

d  better  keep 

more  used  to 

itay  awake  to- 

0  to  come  and 

David  laiigh- 
hc  recalling  of 

to  sleep,"  said 

light.     And  on 
They  anchored 
tied  upon  stand- 
f  having    been 
p  to  sec. 
aid  the  hermit, 
some  time  since 
o'  my  bearings." 
lit  of  the  Cana- 
r  plans  for  the 
they  would  not 
)uld  enter  at  one 
as  to  the  where- 


AT  KINGSTON 


161 


Accordingly  they  passed  the  open  harbor  and  kept 
on  till  the  place  lay  behind  them.  Tiiey  carefully 
scanned  the  vessels  lying  at  the  docks  as  they  passed 
by,  but  could  see  none  that  answered  the  descrip- 
tion of  the  Osprey.  Near  sundown,  they  made  fast 
to  a  remote  little  dock,  after  having  obtained  per- 
mission from  its  owner,  who  dwelt  in  a  little  house 
near  by. 

"  You  boys  stay  here,"  said  the  hermit,  after  they 
had  eaten  their  supper,  "  and  I  '11  go  up  and  find 
out  what  I  can." 

The  I'oys  consented,  and  sat  by  the  dock  while  he 
was  gone.  In  about  two  hours  he  returned,  bringing 
some  piiek;i<5es  he  had  obtained  at  the  stores. 

"  The  coast 's  all  clear,  boys.  The  Osprey  is  n't  in 
yet,  but  they  expect  her  every  day  now.  All  we  cau 
do  is  to  wait." 

"  I  'd  rather  ivork  in  your  garden  than  wait  here," 
said  Henry.  "  Why  did  n't  we  stay  over  on  your 
island,  instead  of  waiting  here  ?  " 

"  Well,  my  boy,"  said  the  hermit,  "  you  know  we 
did  n't  have  very  good  mail  service  over  there.  The 
coach  does  n't  come  every  week,  as  it  does  over  at 
your  place,  and  the  Osprey's  u-en  did  u't  send  me  a 
letter  telling  me  abou!.  tbeir  plans.  If  they  had,  we 
might  have  waited  there.  But  we  had  to  find  out 
about  the  boat  first  of  all." 

Henry  looked  abashed,  and  started  to  apologize. 

11 


,• 


nil  wiWOT Willi  iijuwriiri  Tirnrnr"'""'^"^ 


Ill  TllK  SEAUCU  FOK  ANDKEW   FIELD 

« 0  never  mind,"  said  the  old  man  gently.  « 1 
haven't  forgotten  how  1  UBcd  to  feci  vhe.  I  was  a 
b  Eve.;  time  my  father  would  start  for  Albany, 
ut  ieast  when  1  was  to  go,  why  1  used  to  count  the 
„ours  for  a  week  before.  But  then  Albany  was  a 
groat  town  in  them  days,"  and  the  old  man  s.ghcd. 

"Everybody  in  Albany's  a  Dutchman  is  n  the? 
asked  Eliph.     "  I  think  I  've  hoard  so." 

uit  was  settled  by  tlr.  Dutch,"  said  the  old  man, 
his  quaint  smile  appearing  on  hi«  face  agam.  1  hey 
called  it  Fort  Orange." 

« Where 'd  yon  like  to  live  best?  Down  near 
Albany,  or  in  New  Jersey?"  asked  David. 

«  Weli  I  had  hard  times  and  good  times  m  both 
place.,"  replied  the  hermit.  '^  They 're  different.^  1 
don't  know  '8  I  could  say  which  was  better  to  me. 

uDo  you  know  where  they  got  that  name  New 

Jersey?  "asked  Elijah.  ...  Tnrd 

uYes.    It  was   given   as  a  compliment  to  Lord 

Carteret,  who  once  had  been  a  governor  of  the  island 

of  Jersey  in  the  English  Channel." 

uThey  settled  there  pretty  early,  didnt  they: 

asked  David. 

«  Yes     There  were  some  Puritans  that  came  over 

from  L^ng  Island  and  settled  at  l^lv-^««f  ^^ /" 
1G64,  I've  heard  my  brother  in  law  say.  Ihen,  two 
voars  after  that,  some  Connecticut  people  came  and 
Bottled  at  Newark.    They  used  to  thmk  that  Perth 


jUIHWHliililllMW 


1ELL> 

1  gently.  "1 
wluMi  I  was  a 
i-t  for  Albany, 
I  to  count  the 
Albany  was  a 
d  man  sigbod. 
lan  is  n't  he  ?  " 
o." 

d  the  old  man, 
"  They 


AT  KINGSTON 


163 


again. 


Down    near 
David. 

.  times  in  both 
re  different.     I 
cttcr  to  me." 
;hat   name  New 

limcnt  to  Lord 
lor  of  the  island 

,  didn't  they?" 

,  that  came  over 
Elizabcthtown  in 
say.  Then,  two 
people  came  and 
think  that  Perth 


Amboy,  which  was  one  of  the  capitoLs  of  the  Colony 
in  the  early  days,  (Burlington  was  the  other,)  would 
be  a  bigger  city  than  New  York." 

"I'd  like  to  see  New  York.  It  must  be  a  big 
place,"  remarked  David. 

"  Yes  it  's,"  said  the  hermit.  "  It  had  moat  forty 
thousand  people  in  '78,  and  it  must  have  as  many  's 
a  hundred  thousand  living  there  now." 

"  Whew  !  "  said  Elijah.  "  I  mean  to  see  it  some 
day." 

The  next  day  the  Osprey  did  not  appear.  Day  fol- 
lowed day  and  still  she  did  not  come.  A  week  had 
gone,  and  still  there  were  no  signs  of  her.  The  boys 
began  to  grow  impatient.  The  old  man  tried  to  quiet 
them  as  best  he  could,  but  waiting  was  the  most 
difficult  work  these  active  boys  could  do. 

One  day  the  liermit  returned  and  said,  ''I've  made 
uv  my  mind  to  change  our  quarters.  We  '11  go  round 
in  the  harbor,  and  I  've  found  a  place  that  will  be  a 
ffood  one  for  us.  The  man  that  owns  the  dock  will 
let  us  stay  there." 

When  their  boat  was  under  sail  again,  the  exhilara- 
tion of  the  motion  so  stirred  the  boys,  after  their  tire- 
some waiting,  that  they  ran  for  miles  out  into  the 
lake.  But  when  thoy  did  return,  it  was  to  their  new 
quarters  within  the  harbor. 

The  main  reliance  the  boys  had  for  passing  the 
time  was  to  draw  from   their  companion   some  of 


i 


iiIliJiiilMJliiiianiiiniii'ir"      "     '  ''"    "  "'"''*" 


i'l 


164        THE  seahcu  for  andrew  field 

the  many  incWcnt.  and  .toric,  ..ith  -•>-'■'-;■" 

and  privatiouB  of  the  women,  the,.-  eyes  wm.ld  flash. 

.c[„oBtwid>  I  l.ad  lived  then.    I ''»  ''»™ '«'\» 
hand  u,  those  doings,"  said  Henry,  one  day  attc  ho 

and  Francis  Marion.  .    4  »v.  R,iii,h 

"Yon  may  have  a  chanec  yet  to  test  the  Brit.sh, 
„,bov"»aid  the  old  man  quietly.  "  Bnt  war  ,s  a 
'::^L  :fns,  and  the  amonnt  of   snffering  and 

T7e.~—irCs„fferin,  and  misery 
too"  .-emarked  Pavid  eagerly.  "Now  here  wo  are 
tying  to  r,nd  my  brother  Andrew.  Thoy  just  stole 
h7r  There 's  no  other  word  for  it  except  stote.  A,>d 
I  don't  k,!ow  b,.t  it'll  kill  m,  father  and  mothe.-,"  he 

°'!irmtt -cheer  up,  Pavid,"  said  the  old  man 
rJy  •'  Here  we  are  to  help  him  off.  and  I  behove 
t'"cInbedo,.e.Bntifwcare.od„anyhm^« 
mast  keep  brave  hearts,  you  know.  1  le  had 
ft  .  k  oT  these  things  lots  o'  times  down  on  my 
M^d,  when  I  've  been  shut  in  durin'  *e  w.njer  -d 
haven't  seen  the  face  of  a  man,  wo.nan,  or  ctald 
three  months  at  a  time." 


,s>»»tl»W*l»' 


AT  KINGSTON 


165 


ELR 

rhicli  lie  waB 
more   of  the 
C8  than  much 
heard  of  the 
the  Buffcringa 
would  flash, 
•d  have  had  a 
0  day  after  he 
jrgcant  Jasper 

st  the  British, 

'  But  war  is  a 

suffering  and 

ing  and  misery 
\v  here  we  are 
They  just  stole 
cept  stole.  And 
md  mother,"  he 

id  the  old  man 
iff,  and  I  believe 
do  anything,  we 
f^  I  've  had  to 
!3  down  on  my 
'  the  winter,  and 
aan,  or  child  for 


"That's  so,"  said  David,  "so  I'll  try  to  bo  bravo 

abotit  it." 

"  But  it 's  getting  dark  now  and  we  'd  better  turn  in, 
I  guess,"  said  the  hermit.  The  boys  responded,  and, 
after  seeing  that  everytljing  was  secure,  they  turned 
in  for  the  night.  No  guard  was  kept  here,  for  it  was 
not  considered  necessary. 

David  was  the  first  one  awake  in  the  morning,  and 
as  he  dressed  and  was  about  to  go  on  deck  he  heard 
voices  on  the  dock.  "  Yes,  yes,  I  know.  I  know  all 
about  it,"  said  one  in  a  voice  that  sounded  strangely 
familiar. 

Elijah  was  awake  and  staring  at  David.  "  Come, 
Lige,  come.  That 's  the  cook  of  the  Osprey  or  my 
name 's  Jonah,"  said  David. 


M«k. 


J 


^mm»*'^'- 


16G 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANl>U!;w  FIELD 


CHArTER  XIX 

A   TRIP  TO   THE   OSPBEY 

TN  a  moment,  David  a„d  Elijah -ovd  P"«""8  J^ 
1  tho  hatchway.  Walking  along  .l.c  d„k  jut  a 
little  in  front  of  them  were  t»o  men,  cv.Jcntly  Bailo  .. 
0  ?  hem  had  a  wooden  leg,  which  BtrncU  the 
p:;:c,uent  »ith  »■>  emphatle  thump  at  every  step  ,ta 

"rH-Hhe  cook  of  the  0»pvey.  It  i»,  =»  .me'a 
von -re  born,  Elijah  Spiecr,"  whimpered  Band. 
"^  Just  then  there  came  an  emphatic  nod  from  the 
m'rtith  the  wooden  leg  as  he  talked  w,t  h.  com- 
panion ,  and  they  could  hear  the  words,  Yes,  ,c», 
1  know,  I  know  all  about  it." 

Ehja ,  looked  at  David  and  smiled.    "  Ye,  you  r 
ri^t  •  said  he.   "  It  is  the  cook.   Shall  we  ha.l  InmJ 

David  hesitated.  His  first  thonght  was  to  call  out 
,0  Wm  and  make  himself  known.  If  the  coo  Ijad 
b.en  alone  he  would  surely  have  done  so  Bu  the 
sight  of  the  sailor  with  him  caused  hrm  to  hes,  ate^ 

^"no.    Let  -8  go  down  in  the  cabin  agam  and  we  U 
talk  it  over,"  he  replied. 


LI) 


A   rUU'  TO  THK  osruKY 


167 


peeving  over 

a  dock  just  a 

dcntly  sailorH. 

:h  struck  the 

every  step  its 

,  is,  as  sure's 
d  David, 
uod  from  the 
with  his  com- 
•ds,  "  Yes,  yes, 

"  Yes,  you  'ro 
we  hail  him  ?  " 
was  to  call  out 
I  the  cook  had 
le  so.  But  the 
n  to  hesitate, 
again  and  we  'U 


Upon  (ho  rotiirn  of  the  hoys,  Wwy  fomul  the  h.-r- 
mit  and  Henry  aliomly  astir,  wlio  listoncd  eagerly 
to  what  the  hoys  had  to  say. 

"  You  did  well  not  to  hail  the  cook,  hoys,"  said 
the  hermit.  «  You  might  have  spoiled  cvorytlung. 
Now  I  '11  leave  you  hoys  to  get  some  breakfast,  and 
I  '11  follow  the  cook.  1  may  bo  able  to  learn  some- 
thing. Don't  leave  the  I)-  and  don't  show  your- 
selves very  much  on  deck,  .o  added,  as  taking  his 
skin  cap  ho  departed. 

The  boys  were  too  excited  to  care  much  for  eating, 
but  they  managed  to  get  something  ready  and  sat 
down  to  th(!ir  breakfast. 

"  I  think  tlio  Oay)rcy 's  here  somewhere,"  said  David, 
«  tliough  I  could  n't  sec  her  anywhere.  I  looked  all 
over  the  harbor." 

« I  don't  believe  the  cook  stumped  it  ashore,"  said 
Elijah.  "  He  might  use  his  wooden  leg  as  wc  boys 
used  to  use  a  log  when  wc  were  learning  to  swim. 
But  I  guess  he  did  n't  swim  across  the  lake." 

"I'm  going  to  look  again,"  said  David,  as  he  started 
up  the  hatchway  once  more,  disregarding  the  call  of 
the  boys  to  be  careful.  But  in  a  moment  ho  re- 
turned to  announce  that  not  a  sight  of  the  Osprcy 
could  be  had.  They  put  away  the  few  dishes  that 
composed  this  part  of  the  outfit  of  the  hermit's  boat, 
and  sat  down  to  wait.  Occasionally  some  one  of  them 
peered  over  the  hatchway,  and  out  over  the  harbor  and 


■j  3?ri??^^^K'.0^^'S-'^-^=S^?| 


m 


THE  HKARCII    von  ANDKKW  FIF:M) 


along  tlio  (locks,  but  iiolliiiig  of  the  Biitish  sliip  or 
tiu)  hoi'init  could  In    scon. 

The  liouTH  passed  on.  The  sun  clinihcd  liif^li.  Tlicy 
felt  the  heal  of  the  Hunnuer  sua  ujmn  Iho  water,  but 
Btill  the  lieiiuit  did  not  appear.  ? 

"It's  time  for  dinner,  boys.  Let's  get  it  rca'ly 
BO  that  when  the  hermit  comes  he'll  find  something 
hot,  for  ho  '11  be  lunigry,  as  be  went  away  without  any 
breakfast,"  said  Elijah,  wishing  to  do  something  to 
rouso  David  from  Mie  state  of  discouragomcut  into 
\kuich  ho  had  fallen, 

David  responded  mechanically,  and  helped  to  pel 
some  potatoes  and  to  cnl  some  of  the  dry  corn  bread. 
Hut  just  as  the  boys  had  all  things  ready,  the  hermit 
appeared  on  board,  his  face  all  wet  with  perspiration, 
Oiid  his  -.   ir  cap  in  his  hand. 

•'  Teli  ;rou  what  it  is,  boys,  Canada's  said  to  bo  a 
T'- oicy  cold  place,  bnt  a  coon  skin's  cap  's  better  down 
li'uong  the  islands  than  here." 

He  drew  his  sleeve  across  his  forehead,  took  off  his 
coat,  and  looked  around  at  the  boys.  David  had  not 
said  a  word,  but  his  eager  look,  which  never  left  the 
hermit's  face,  told  all  that  was  in  his  mind. 

The  old  man  smiled  and  said  gently,  "  I  'sposo 
you  want  to  know  what  I  found  out,  don't  ye  ? "  and 
without  waiting  for  a  reply,  or  the  emphatic  nods 
which  the  boys  gave  him,  ho  said  at  once,  "  Well, 
I  've  found  out  that  the  Osprey  's  here." 


I  ELD 

ritiuh  Hlii|i  or 

id  liigh.   They 
tliu  water,  but 


Rct  it  rcfi'ly 
ud  8()iiu-tliiii^ 
y  without  any 
somctliing  to 
'agomcut  into 

iclpcd  to  |ie"l 
ly  corn  bread, 
iy,  the  hermit 
1  perspiration, 

said  to  be  a 
8  better  down 

i,  took  off  his 
)avid  had  not 
lever  left  the 
nd. 

tly,  "  I  'sposc 
n't  ye? "and 
nphatic  nods 
once,  "  Well, 


-J 


•'git'^  -'g'i'^JMWMti^f^gaaE 


"^^.W 


^>, 


t^^.. 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


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26 


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1^121    12.5 

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Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  Microreproductions  /  Institut  Canadian  de  microreproductions  historiques 


m 


i:^^ 


A  TRIP  TO  THE  OSPREY 


169 


"  Where  is  she  ?  "  asked  David  eagerly.  "  I  could  n't 
see  her  anywhere  in  the  harbor,  and  1  looked  all  over 
too." 

"  Well,  I  guess  the  reason  you  could  n't  see  her  in 
the  harbor  was  because  she  was  n't  there.  She 's  out 
around  the  point  and  is  a  good  half  a  mile  from  the 
shore.  I  could  n't  find  out  whether  she  was  coming 
in  or  not." 

And  the  hermit  told  the  story  of  his  morning's 
adventures.  When  he  stepped  out  upon  the  dock, 
the  cook  was  not  to  be  seen,  but  he  had  followed  in 
the  direction  indicated  by  the  boys.  For  two  hours 
he  had  searched,  but  not  a  sign  of  the  cook  could  he 
find,  and  he  had  begun  to  doubt  the  correctness  of 
the  boys'  discovery. 

But  at  last  he  had  left  the  streets,  and  came  down 
along  the  docks ;  and  as  he  had  turned  tlie  corner,  he 
saw  riding  gracefully  at  anchor,  about  a  half-mile 
out  from  the  shore,  a  great  ship  which  he  at  once 
took  for  the  Osprey.  An  inquiry  made  at  the  dock 
proved  the  correctness  of  his  conclusion,  but  he  could 
find  no  one  who  seemed  to  know  anything  of  her 
destination  or  plans. 

"  1  passed  for  a  farmer,  at  least  I  tried  to  and  I 
guess  I  did,"  he  said,  his  quaint  smile  appearing  for 
a. moment.  "  And  I  am  a  farmer  down  among  the 
islands,  only  J  don't  just  fence  in  my  lots  as  most 
other  farmers  do." 


170 


THE  SEARCH  FOK  ANDREW  FIELD 


"  Wc  '11  talk  over  now  what's  the  best  thing  to  do," 
he  said,  as  he  seated  himself  at  the  little  table  with 
the  others.  "  1  think  my  plan  's  about  the  best  one, 
the  plan  I  told  you  of  coming  over." 

"  About  your  going  on  board  the  Osprcy  V  "  asked 
David. 

"  Yes,"  replied  the  hornjit ;  "  only  I  don't  want  to 
go  alone.  You  see  I  don't  know  your  brother  when  I 
see  him,  and  I  don't  oven  know  the  cook,  though  I 
don't  feel  so  sure  of  him  anyway  as  you  boys  do." 

"  Which  one  of  us  do  yo-  want  to  go  with  you  ? " 
inquired  Elijah. 

"  Wall,  1  think  Henry  'b  the  best  one.  He 's  the 
youngest,  and  the  one  they  '11  be  least  likely  to  sus- 
pect. He  knows  Andrew,  and  he  knows  enough  to 
keep  his  tongue  inside  his  mouth.  I  call  that  a  good 
education,  don't  you  ?  Some  men  never  learn  enough 
to  keep  theirs  there." 

"Polder  Dodd  told  me  that  was  the  reason  why 
CKsar  was  such  a  success,  that  ho  knew  what  he 
could  n't  do  and  did  n't  try  to  do  it,"  said  David.  "  I 
wonder  if  we  knew  before  we  came  here,"  he  added 
quietly. 

"  Yes,"  said  Elijah,  "  and  I  heard  Elder  Dodd  say 
that  that  was  just  the  reason  Napoleon  made  such  a 
mess  of  it  at  last,  because  he  did  n't  know  what  he 
couldn't  do." 

"  Well  we  know  what  wc  can  do,  and  wc  're  gojng 


....  nj-miiii^"^-""-'-*'""--^'---"—^^"-"'"-" 


A  TRIP  TO  THE  OSPREY 


171 


to  do  it  too,"  said  tlio  licrmit  cheerfully,  and  the  faces 
of  the  boys  grew  brighter  at  his  words. 

"  If  we  only  can  get  Andrew,"  said  David  eagerly. 

"You  mustn't  lose  heart  now  that  you've  got  to 
the  pinch,"  said  the  hermit.  "All  you 've  been  doin' 
lias  been  just  for  this.  Now  you  must  be  a  man,  and 
I  know  you  will." 

"Yes,  sir;  I'm  ashamed  of  mj'self,"  said  David. 
"  But  when  I  think  of  what  may  happen  to  us  all,  I 
tell  you  I  am  a  little  fearful." 

"  We  must  get  to  work  then,  at  once.  The  Osprey 
may  not  be  goin'  to  make  a  very  long  stop,  and  wo 
mustn't  get  the  dumps.  Now,  Henry,  you're  my 
boy,  you  know.  I  'm  a  farmer,  and  I  'ra  goin'  to  take 
some  of  these  here  big  new  potatoes,  such  as  won't 
come  to  light  in  Canada  in  a  month  yet,  and  I  'm 
goin'  over  to  the  Osprey  and  see  if  I  can't  sell  some. 
It  may  give  me  a  chance  to  see  Andrew,  and  it  may 
not.  You  must  go  witli  me,  and  we  '11  have  to  leave 
some  things  to  Providence.     But  we  must  be  off  at 


» 


once. 

And  he  led  the  way  to  the  little  skiff,  into  which  he 
put  some  of  the  largest  and  best  potatoes  and  other 
vegetables, "  Just  as  samples,  you  know,"  he  said  to 
the  boys,  and  in  a  few  minutes  he  and  Henry  were  on 
their  way. 

They  pulled  around  the  point,  and  there  lay  the 
Osprey  at  anchor,  less  than  half  a  mile  away.  They 
neither  of  them  said  anything,  though   the  hermit 


0i*i,f''m\, 


172  THE  SEAllCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

noticed  the  white  face  of  Henry,  and  smUed  as  he 
saw  the  h,olc  of  determination  about  h.s  mouth. 
.He'll  do,"  he  said  to  himself,  as  he  saw  they  were 
now  within  hailing  distance  of  the  Osprey. 

In  a  few  minutes  they  were  alongside  the  ship,  and 
were  hailing  the  men  on  deck. 

Tl  want  to  see  the  steward,"  called  out  the  herm.t 
"I've  got  some  new  potatoes  and  green  stuft  here  i 

"^fDon'Lk  ye  can  sell  anything  here,"  called  out 
one  of  the  sailors.  "There's  been  too  many  o  you 
Kanuck  farmers  here  already."  „„,„tnp^ 

uyou  tell  the  steward  I've  some  new  potatoes 
here.  I  think  the  Cap'n  'd  like  some,  and  I  know  no 
other  farmer's  had  any  to  sell." 

The  man  disappeared  for  a  moment,  ^^^d  then  re- 

turned  to  the  ship's  side  with  two  officers.    Just  what 

hey  were  Henry  could  not  tell.    He  was  afraid  of 

the  boatswain,  from  what  the  boys  had  said ;  but  he 

could  not  tell  whether  one  of  these  was  he  or  not. 

One  of  the  officers  called  out  to  the  hermit  and 
said,  "The  steward  isn't  here.  He's  gone  ashore. 
What  have  you  got  ? "  he  asked.  ^ 

u  New  potatoes,  and  big  ones,  too,"  said  the  hermit, 
tossinsj  two  or  three  on  deck. 

"They  look  good,"  he  heard  one  say  to  the  other. 
« I'm  tired  of  the  old  dried  up  things  we  ve  had  for 
n^onths.  We  might  call  the  cook.  PerhapB  he  d 
know." 


I  as  ho 
mouth, 
ey  were 

hip,  and 

1  hermit, 
ff  here  I 

ailed  out 
ly  o'  you 

potatoes 
know  no 

then  re- 
Fust  what 
afraid  of 
d ;  but  he 
tr  not. 
jrmit  and 
le  ashore. 

he  hermit, 

the  other, 
've  had  for 
hapS  he'd 


A   TRIP  TO  THE  OSrREY 

"  I  'm  not  going  to  bother  about  it.  I  don't  run  the 
dufllc,"  said  the  other,  and  he  turned  upon  his  heel 
and  wallced  away.  The  heart  of  the  hermit  sank  for 
a  moment,  but  the  other  officer  stopped  for  a  minute, 
and  said,  "  You  ean  come  aboard  if  you  want  to  see 
the  cook.  I  don't  think  he  '11  mind  getting  some  of 
those  things.  You  take  this  man  into  the  galley,"  ho 
said  to  a  sailor  standing  near,  and  then  he  too  turned 
and  walked  away. 

The  hermit  and  Henry  made  the  skiff  fast  to  the 
Osprey,  and  the  old  man  said  to  Henry  in  a  low  tone, 
"You  come  too.,  Keep  your  eyes  open  and  your 
mouth  shut.  Now 's  our  chance."  And  he  clambered 
up  on  deck,  an  example  which  Henry  speedily  followed. 

The  sailor  led  the  way  to  the  galley.  As  he  en- 
tered, he  said  to  the  cook,  "  Here 's  a  farmer 's  got 
some  new  potatoes.  The  second  officer  told  me  to 
bring  'em  to  you.  The  steward 's  ashore,  and  you  do 
as  you  want  to,"  and  turning  back  he  left  them  there. 

The  hermit  and  Henry  entered  the  galley.  Directly 
opposite,  on  a  low  stool,  sat  Andrew  Field.  He  turned 
as  the  two  came  in,  and  a  look  of  intense  surprise 
swept  over  his  face  as  ho  saw  Henry  Spicer,  his  old 
neighbor  and  friend.  But  he  was  silent  as  ho  saw 
the  warning  look  in  Henry's  eye.  The  cook  had 
been  looking  for  a  moment  sharply  at  his  visitors, 
especially  at  Henry,  and  then  he  said,  "  0,  yes,  yes, 
I  know,  I  know  all  about  it" 


j^:ftS>K»iffl5S!»W*»W! 


174 


:11E  SEARCH  FOB  ANUIIEW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  XX 

AN   ESCAPE   FROM  THE  OSPREY 

rr^HE  hermit  turned  to  the  cook  with  a  look  of  sur 


i 


prise ; 


......  "Know  all  about  it?    Know  all  about 

what '  What  do  you  mean  ?  "  He  was  more  anxious 
than  ho  cared  to  shosv.  Andrew  meanwhile  went  on 
with  his  work,  though,  if  one  had  looked  carefully, 
he  would  have  seen  that  his  hands  were  trembling, 
and  that  his  face  was  paler  than  usual. 

The  cook  only  chuckled  by  way  of  reply,  and  said, 
"You  wanted  to  ship  some  taters  aboard  the  Osprey, 

did  ye  ?  " 

"I  have  some  new  potatoes,  and  I  thought  I  might 
sell  enough  for  a  few  messes  for  the  officers,"  replied 

the  hermit. 

«  Where  was  they  raised  ?  "  asked  the  cook,  thump- 
in-  with  his  wooden  leg,  as  he  busied  himself  about 
the  galley.     "I  know;  O,  yes,  I  know,  1  know  al 
about  it.    They  was  raised  down  near  Oswego  was  n  t 
they?  "  he  asked,  stopping  and   looking  sharply  at 

Henry.  ,     .„ 

Henry  was  abashed;  he  could  find  no  words  to 

say,  as  the  cook  went  on:  "I  thought  very  likely 


i 


ook  of  sur- 
i  all  about 
)re  anxious 
ile  went  on 
1  carefully, 
trembling, 

r,  and  said, 
the  Osprey, 

ght  I  might 
rs,"  replied 

ook,  thump- 
mself  about 
I  know  all 
(vego  was  n't 
;  sharply  at 

no  words  to 
;  very  likely 


AN   KSCAl'E  FROM  THK  OSl'IlKY 


175 


they  was  raised  near  there,  as  tlie  last  time  1  sec  ye, 
ye  were  busy  in  that  town.  Did  ye  keep  the  'pint- 
mcnt  ye  made  there  ?  "  and  he  gave  a  hearty  laugh. 

"O  Mr.  Cook,"  said  Henry,  "you  promised  to 
help  us  at  Oswego;  I  know  you  won't  go  back  on  us 
now.-  We  want  to  get  Andrew  off  this  boat.  You 
know  it  as  well  as  I  do,  and  he  will  have  to  get  off 
if  his  father  and  mother  arc  to  live.  It's  most 
killed  them." 

"  Who  said  I  would  n't  help  ?  I  'm  agoin'  to,  and 
my  time's  'bout  up  in  this  blasted  Britisher  too. 
Guess  mebbe  1  '11  go  long  too.  But  we  hain't  long 
to  talk  about  it;  got  to  make  plans  lively.  Ye  see 
I  got  paid  off  yesterday,  and  it 's  a  good  time  fer  me 

to  leave." 

"  What  do  you  think  's  the  best  thing  to  do  now  ?  " 

asked  the  hermit. 

"Well,  I  've  been  thinkin'  o'  this  matter  for  some 
time,"  he  replied.  "I  just  thought  these  boys 
would  n't  give  up,  even  if  they  did  find  the  Osprey 
had  gone,  and  had  n't  waited  fer  'cm  to  pay  us  a 
visit.  Are  the  other  boys  here,  too?  Have  ye  got 
a  boat  handy,  or  anything  ?  " 

'Yes,"  replied  the  hermit.  "The  other  boys  are 
ne:.  here,  and  we  've  got  a  little  cat-rigged  boat  that 
we  know  '11  sail  as  fast  as  any  on  the  lake." 

"Well,  then,  it  strikes  me  'twould  be  a  good 
thing  fer  yer  boat  to  drop  out  near  us  some  dark 


i 

)\ 
\ 


:iv 


176 


THE   SEARCH  FOU  ANDREW  FIELI> 


night  pretty  quick.     The  Osprcy  's  goin'  to  stay  hero 
fcr  about  a  week,  so  1  heard   one  of  the  oflicers  a 

say  in'. 

"I  think  that's  a  good  plan,"  said  the  hermit; 

"but  how '11  we  know?" 

"Well,  I  tell  ye,"  said  the  good-natured  cook,  "ye 
want  a  dark  night.  If  ye  could  come  out  near  here 
BOKic  dark  night,  we  'd  be  on  the  lookout,  and  Andrew 
here  could  fall  overboard  accidental  like;  and  you 
perhaps  could  pick  him  up,  who  knows  ?  You  can 
swim  can't  ye,  Andrew  ? "  said  he,  turning  to  him. 

Andrew  smiled  and  nodded  assent.  "I  think," 
said  he,  "if  you  could  get  a  little  skiff  and  come  out 
some  dark  stormy  night,  why  David  could  give  his 
call,  and  I  'd  know  you  were  here.  Then  if  I  jumped 
overboard,  you  can  pick  me  up." 

"Suppose,  then,"  said  the  hermit,  «we  leave  it 
this  way.  The  first  rainy  night  we  have  we  '11  come 
out  between  ten  and  twelve  o'clock.  If  we  ain't  hero 
by  twelve,  you  '11  know  wc  're  not  coming.  If  we 
come,  we  '11  lay  by  near  you,  and  David  will  give  his 
call.  You  must  be  sure  and  answer  it,"  said  he  to 
Andrew,  "  when  you  jump  into  the  water.  In  case 
you  don't  find  us,  you  are  not  so  far  out  but  you 
can  swim  ashore.  How  does  that  plan  strike  you  ?  " 
"That's  good,"  said  Andrew,  "and  I  wish  it 
could  be  done  to-night." 

"I   don't  believe   to-night '11  be   dark   enough," 


L 


AN  ESCAPE  FROM  THE  OSPREY 


177 


replied  the  hcrinit.  "But  what  will  you  do  if  you 
want  to  get  off  ? "  said  he  to  the  cook.  "  You  can't 
swim  much  with  a  wooden  leg." 

"I  know,  1  know  all  about  it,"  said  the  cook, 
stamping  his  wooden  leg  upon  the  stove.  "The  first 
day  wo  get  when  it 's  stormy,  or  shows  the  night 's 
goin'  to  be  dark,  I  '11  go  ashore  and  I  won't  come 
back.     But  where  '11  I  meet  you  ? "  he  added. 

The  hermit  told  him  what  kind  of  a  boat  they  had, 
and  where  she  was.  The  cook  then  told  them  they 
had  better  go  ashore,  as  some  one  might  suspect 
something  if  they  talked  any  longer;  and  even  while 
he  spoke  a  sailor  came  to  the  galley  and  called  out, 
"What  are  you  doing  down  there  ?  Waiting  for  this 
countryman  to  grow  some  potatoes  ? " 

"No,  I  don't  want  any  of  his  taters,"  said  the 
cook.  "They're  no  good,  and  the  sooner  you  get 
'em  ashore  the  better,  if  you  want  anything  to  eat 
yourselves  to-night. " 

The  hermit  and  Henry  went  quickly  to  the  ship's 
side,  and  in  a  few  minutes  were  in  their  skiff  pull- 
ing rapidly  for  the  shore. 

"I  call  that  a  pretty  good  day's  work,"  said  the 
old  man,  "  if  the  cook  does  as  he  agrees. " 

"Don't  you  think  he  will?"  asked  Henry,  anx- 
iously. 

"Yes,  I  do,"  replied  the  hermit.  "Leastwise,  he 
seems  all  fair  and  square." 

12 


s;'^''»ya»«-^!*^midBt£i.*Km-'-i««*^t!:?-v'-';c:.^T^.^"-.r^^^ 


,  i  i 


I 


178 


TlIK   SKAHCH   FOU   ANDKKW   FIKLI) 


They  reported  the  reHiiltH  of  their  virtit  to  Dnvid 
and  Klijiiii  upon  tlieir  return.  David  wuh  all  entliu- 
Biasm,  and  wanted  to  wtart  that  very  night.  Tho 
hermit  ealnied  liini  with  hirf  (luict  words,  and  uh- 
Bured  him  that  the  night  would  bo  so  clear  that 
they  could  do  nothing  in  it. 

It  proved  as  ho  predicted.  The  stars  were  shin- 
ing, and  over  the  water  they  could  see,  hb  if  it  were 
only  twilight. 

The  following  night  was  no  better,  and  the  next 
was  the  same.  David  chafed  and  fumed,  while  the 
others  waited  j)atiently.  Hut  when  they  awoke  on 
the  following  morning  the  clouds  were  heavy,  and  by 
ten  o'clock  a  fine,  misty  rain  set  in.  It  continued 
steadily  all  the  afternoon,  and  just  at  night  who 
should  come  aboard  but  the  cook;  his  face  was  all 
aglow,  and  his  wooden  leg  thumped  as  if  it  shared 
in  his  pleasure. 

"Most's  good  as  the  Constellation,"  ho  said, 
looking  around  upon  the  cabin.  "  Why,  this  is  only 
a  picnic,"  he  added. 

"  You  would  n't  call  it  a  picnic,  I  guess,  if  you  'd 
waited  here  as  we  have,"  said  David,  gloomily. 

"Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  said  the 
cook.  "  Why,  you  've  been  waiting  for  this  very 
night.     I  guess  it  was  just  made  fer  ye." 

They  waited  until  about  ten  o'clock,  when  a  heavy 
fog  had  set  in.     Tho  rain  had  ceased  to  fall,  .but  the 


»4«W«»^*" 


i.ft1''^'TT.Winj..i;j  ..i^f»»n  . 


to  Pnvid 
ill  t'Utlm- 
;ht.  Tho 
,  uud  UH- 
ilcar  that 

'crc  shin- 
it"  it  were 

the  next 
wliile  the 
awoke  on 
vy,  and  by 
continued 
night  who 
ce  was  all 

it  shared 

he  said, 
his  is  only 

1,  if  you  'd 
nily. 

,"  said  the 
this   very 

en  a  heavy 
ill,  .but  the 


AN   KHCAl'K   FROM  TIIK  OSPUKY 


179 


air  was  heavy  and  damp.  Not  a  star  could  l»e  soon; 
and  if  thoy  looked  ahead,  thoy  could  see  but  a  few 
foot.  The  hermit  and  David  stepped  into  the  skiff, 
leaving  tho  others  in  the  boat  to  await  th(!ir  return. 

Now  that  the  time  of  action  had  como,  David  wns 
cool  and  collected.  The  hermit,  who  know  the  way, 
gave  tho  directions,  and  the  skiff  went  slowly  on. 

"Do  you  suppose  he  can  find  us  in  such  a  night  as 
this  ?  "  asked  David  in  a  whisper,  of  his  companion. 

"O,  I  guess  so,"  said  the  hermit,  cheerfully. 
"  But  I  don't  think  we  'd  better  talk  much ;  tho 
stiller  we  keep,  the  better.     Now  go  ahead." 

In  a  little  time  the  hermit  called  in  a  whisper  to 
David  to  stop  rowing.  Rising  in  his  place,  he  peered 
through  the  darkness.  David  could  see  nothing 
himself,  and  he  wondered  at  the  confidence  of  his 
companion.  They  had  stopped  rowing,  and  the  her- 
mit silently  was  using  one  oar  as  a  paddle,  and  in 
stillness  was  sending  the  little  skiff  onward. 

Suddenly  David  saw  looming  right  up  before  them 
a  great  bulky  body,  which  he  knew  must  be  the  ship; 
he  almost  gave  a  cry  in  his  surprise  and  excitement, 
but  a  whisper  from  the  hermit  silenced  him.  He 
still  continued  to  use  his  paddle,  and  changed  his 
position  till  he  knew  he  was  near  the  cook's  galley. 
Then,  resting  a  minute,  he  whispered  to  David  to 
give  his  call. 

The  cawing  of  a  crow  rose  on  the  still  air,  and 


^ 


W^mmmmm 


m    I   1^ 


180 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


then  everything  was  silent.  David  waited  as  it 
seemed  to  him  an  hour,  and  no  response  came;  he 
could  hear  some  one  moving  about  on  the  ship,  and 
that  was  all. 

"Give  it  again,  David,"  said  the  hermit,  "and  a 
little  louder."  And  the  cawing  rose  again  in  the 
darkness.  But  this  time  there  was  a  sharp  answer 
on  the  ship;  a  single  caw  arose,  and  there  was  a 
splash  in  the  water,  not  far  from  them.  The  hermit, 
with  two  or  three  rapid  strokes,  sent  his  skiff  in  the 
direction  whence  the  sound  came.  In  less  than  a 
minute  they  saw  the  form  of  a  man  struggling  in 
the  water,  and  they  both  grasped  him  and  lifted  him 
into  the  boat.  It  was  Andrew,  wet,  and  panting 
more  from  the  excitement  than  from  his  exertions. 
The  hermit  gave  three  or  four  strong  strokes,  and  sent 
the  skiff  a  number  of  yards  away. 

"Hush,  boys!  Keep  perfectly  quiet.  They  can't 
see  us,  but  they  may  hear  something;  we  must  stay 
where  we  are  for  a  little. " 

In  the  mean  time  there  was  confusion  on  board  the 
ship;  there  were  shouts  and  shots,  but  none  came 
near  them.  Soon  they  heard  a  boat  lowered  and 
sent  out  from  the  ship. 

It  was  an  anxious  time  for  David  and  Andrew. 
They  could  not  see  each  other's  faces,  nor  that  of  the 
hermit,  but  they  could  hear  the  oars  of  the  boat  that 
was  evidently  near  them. 


I 


:;ed  as  it 
came ;  he 
ship,  and 

it,  "and  a 
lin  in  the 
rp  answer 
lerc  was  a 
he  hermit, 
kiff  in  the 
38S  than  a 
jggling  in 
lifted  him 
id  panting 
exertions. 
8,  and  sent 

They  can't 
must  stay 

a  board  the 
none  came 
)wered  and 


d  Andrew. 

that  of  the 

le  boat  that 


[ 


"Willi  I    »» 


AN  KSCAPE  FROM  THE  OSPItEY 


181 


"It 's  that  fellow  we  took  over  by  Sackett's  Har- 
bor," they  heard  one  say.  "I  guess  he  '11  never  get 
pressed  again.  What  a  fool  to  try  to  escape  on  a 
night  like  this!  Why,  he  couldn't  tell  which  way 
was  shore."  The  boys  felt  their  own  boat  in  motion, 
but  David  was  sure  it  was  not  going  back.  They 
could  see  the  ship  again  now,  so  close  were  they  to 
it;  but  the  skiff  kept  on  around  the  ship,  and  only 
stopped  when  it  was  on  the  farther  — the  lake  side. 
Then  all  was  again  silent,  and  not  even  the  sounds 
of  the  boat  that  was  searching  for  them  could  be 
heard.  They  dared  not  speak,  and  could  only  wait. 
It  seemed  to  David  that  they  remained  there,  scarcely 
daring  to  breathe,  for  hours. 

But  at  length  the  skiff  began  to  move  again. 
David  had  lost  all  idea  of  locality ;  he  could  not  tell 
even  the  direction  in  which  they  were  to  go.  But 
the  skiff  kept  on  quietly  and  steadily,  leaving  the 
ship  behind. 

It  seemed  to  David  a  long  time  before  the  hermit 
spoke,  but  at  last  he  did,  telling  the  boys  to  take 
their  oars  and  i  w  is  he  directed.  They  kept  on, 
David  no  longer  trying  to  keep  any  idea  of  time; 
and  he  was  greatly  surprised  when  they  found  them- 
selves alongside  the  hermit's  boat,  to  receive  an 
enthusiastic  welcome  from  the  watchers  there. 

"Yes,  I  knew  you'd  come,"  said  the  cook.  "I 
knew,  I  knew  all  about  it." 


182  THE  SEARCH  FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 

«Wc  must  leave  here  at  once,"  the  hermit  said. 
"There  's  no  wind,  and  we  can't  sail.  We  '11  have  to 
use  the  long  oars  and  row ;  I  can  find  my  way  if  it 
is  dark.     But  go  we  must,  and  at  once." 

The  boat  was  at  once  pushed  off,  and  headed  for 
the  lake  through  the  blackness  and  fog. 


SUUl'RISE  AT  TIIK   UEUMITS   IIOMK  183 


nit  said. 
1  have  to 
way  if  it 

jaded  for 


Cn AFTER  XXI 

.  A   SURPRISR   AT  THE   HERMIT'S   HOME 

NOT  a  word  was  spoken  l.y  any  one  except  \.y 
the  hermit,  as  ho  gave  directions,  tor  hours. 
The  boat  was  sent  onward  steadily  and  quietly. 
There  were  only  four  of  the  long  oars  on  board, 
BO  the  boys  relieved  one  another,  the  hermit  and  the 
cook  refusing  to  stop  rowing  even  to  rest.  ^ 

At  last  the  morning  came,  but  the  fog  remained. 
The  quiet  confidence  of  the  hermit  inspired  the 
others,  although  not  one  of  them  had  the  least  idea 
of  where  they  were.  The  sun  had  been  up  for  two 
hours  before  it  had  burned  the  fog  away,  and  then  all 
stopped  to  rest  and  eat.  ,.         ^i- 

There  was  nothing  except  water  and  a  dim  outline 
of  the  shore  to  be  seen.  Not  a  boat  was  in  sight, 
and  the  feeling  of  loneliness  seemed  to  be  upon  every 
one  But  the  breakfast  brought  renewed  life  and 
cheer,  and  the  wind,  which  now  began  to  rise,  in- 
creased their  hopefulness. 

«I  know,  1  know  all  about  it,"  said  the  cook  to 
the  hermit;  "but  I  hope  you've  got  your  bearings. 
I  don't  know  where  we  are." 


184  THE  SEARCH  FOU  ANDREW   FIELD 

"I  do  "  said  the  hermit,  with  a  smile.  "  Hut  we 
have  n't  thouglit  a  bit  of  where  we  're  goia',  nor  v/hat 
we  'd  best  do  now.     What  do  you  think,  boys  ! 

"I  don't  know,"  said  David.  "K  wo  had  the 
Pilot,  I  should  want  to  start  for  home  right  away^ 
We  've  been  gone  a  long  time  now.  Why,  it  must 
be  past  the  Fourth  of  July.     I  'vc  hardly  kept  track 

of  the  days."  .      •  .    -f  » 

"Yes  July's  got  a  good  big  hole  eaten  into  it, 
replied 'the  hermit.  "I  think  we'd  better  all  go 
back  to  my  island.  Perhaps  you  could  rig  up  the 
boat  you  borrowed  from  the  smugglers.  If  you  can  t, 
you  might  strike  out  by  land,  and  go  cross-cut  along 
shore,  though  that 's  uncertain,  as  you  don't  know 
the  way.     We  'd  better  go  right  back  to  my  place 

now."  .      , .        ..,  „ 

Andrew  looked  at  David,  questioning  him  with  a 
dance.  David  nodded  his  head  emphatically,  and 
then  said  aloud,  «I  'm  sure  that 's  the  best  thing  to 
be  done  now.     We  can  talk  over  our  plans  on  the 

""  The  boat  was  now  rapidly  sailing  towards  home. 
The  relief  from  rowing  was  a  pleasure  to  all,  as  they 
sat  near  the  hermit,  and  watched  him  direct  the 
course.  David  and  Andrew  lived  in  a  very  undemon- 
strative age,  and  any  show  of  affection  was  regarded 
as  akin  to  weakness ;  and  yet  the  hermit  often  smiled 
as  he  saw  them  sitting  close  by  each  other,  and  talk- 


•  Hut  we 

lor  v/hnt 

8?" 

had  the 
ht  away. 
,  it  must 
!pt  track 

into  it," 
iv  all  go 
g  up  the 
rou  can't, 
cut  along 
m't  know 
my  place 

im  with  a 
lally,  and 
t  thing  to 
.ns  on  the 

rds  home. 
,11,  as  they 
direct  the 
'  undemon- 
.8  regarded 
[ten  smiled 
',  and  talk- 


\ 


A  SUHPRISE   AT  THE  HERMIT'S  HOME  IBf. 

i„g  in  low  tones.  David  was  telling  his  brother  of 
allhis  experiences  in  trying  to  rescue  him.  Andrew's 
face  showed  his  interest,  and  a  grave  look  came 
over  it  as  ho  heard  of  his  father's  illness. 

"Andrew,"  said  the  hermit,  "you  must  have  had 
a  tough  time/  it.  Did  they  keep  you  shut  up  in 
that  stuffy  little  cook's  galley  all  the  time  ?  " 

Here  the  cook  broke  in,  and  said,  "It  wasn't  a 
stuffy  galley  at  all.  It  was  the  best  galley  on  the 
lake.     0,  I  know,  I  know,  all  about  it." 

All  the  party  laughed,  and  Andrew  said,  "I  did 
have  a  hard  time  of  it.  They  kept  me  shut  up  pretty 
well.  This  is  only  the  second  time  1  've  seen  the 
open  sky  since  I  was  pressed." 

"  What  was  the  other  time  ? "  inquired  David.      . 
"0,  they  brought  me  up  on  deck  one  day,  when 
we  'd'been  out  about  three  weeks,  I  guess,  and  asked 
me  if  I  would  n't  like  to  serve  before  the  mast  now. 
I  told  'em,  '  No. '     I  did  n't  want  to  serve  at  all,  and 
that  they  had  no  right  to  make  me.     I  guess  I  made 
a  mistake,  as  they  gave  me  a  dreadful  flogging,  and 
sent  me  back  to  the  galley  to  stay  till  I  thought  I  'd 
like  to  serve.     My  back  has  n't  got  well  yet.     I  can 
hardly  lie  on  it  now."  ,    ,  ^, 

"How'd  you  get  away  last  night?"    asked  the 

hermit.  ,  i^  n 

"  0,  I  waited  till  I  heard  David's  call.     I  tell  you 
my  heart  came  right  up  in  my  throat.     1  was  all 


mm 


18G 


TIIK   SKAUCII   FOU  ANDUKW   FIKLl) 


rondy  to  mnki^  a  break,  but  I  waited  till  I  heard  it 
the  second  time,  and  then  1  made  a  rurth  from  the 
galley,  and  gave  the  call,  and  just  jumped  over  the 
rail.  If  y<m  had  n't  picked  me  up,  I  Ruess  1  would  n't 
have  served  on  the  Osprey  or  anywhcM-e  else  again," 
he  said,  with  a  laugh.  "I  can  laugh  now,  but  I 
couldn't  then." 

♦'You  don't  want  to  laugh  too  loud  yit,  though," 
said  the  hermit.  "You  remember  about  the  man 
who  crowed  before  he  was  out  of  the  woods,  don't 
yc?  Well,  we're  not  in  the  woods  yet,  to  say 
nothin'  o'  bcin'  out." 

"They  can't  get  us  now,"  said  Elijah.     "We  'vo 
as  good  a  boat  as  there  is  on  the  lake,   and  the 
Osprey  never  '11  follow  us  down  here." 
*«Mel)be  not,"  replied  the  hermit;   "but  there's 
some  smugglers  round  here." 

This  reference  to  the  smugglers  brought  out  the 
story  of  their  meeting  with  them,  to  which  Andrew 
listened  with  keen  interest.  In  this  way  most  of 
the  day  was  consumed,  and  as  night  drew  on  they 
found  themselves  near  the  river.  They  kept  on 
their  course  for  a  little  ways,  when  the  hermit 
turned  and  said,  "  What  shall  we  do  for  the  night  ? 
1  'm  most  sure  I  could  find  my  way  even  ih  the 
dark;  but  I  'm  a  little  fearful  it  might  not  be  just 
the  thing.     We  might  strike  a  snag." 

"  Let 's  anchor  near  the  shore,  and  stay  aboard  all 
night  then,"  said  the  cook. 


lioanl  it 
roiii  llic 
over  the 
^oiild  n't 
again," 
NV,   but  I 

though," 
the  mnn 
Js,  don't 
,   to  say 

"We've 
and  the 

■j  there  's 

t  out  the 
I  Andrew 
r  moat  of 
on  they 
kept  on 
10  hermit 
lie  night  ? 
sn  iti  the 
at  bo  just 

aboard  all 


A  SUUI'UISK.   AT  TIIK   IIKUMirS   llOMR  187 

This  ])lan  was  approved  y)y  all.  The  anchor  was 
cast,  and  the  watch  so  arranged  that  no  one  had  more 
than  two  hours  of  standing  on  guard.  As  all  were 
tired  from  tlic  previous  night's  exertion,  this  made 
the  duty  fall  lightly  on  all. 

Karly  on  the  following  morning  they  were  astir, 
and  were  soon  on  tljoir  way  down  the  river.  The 
wind  kept  fair,  and  the  bracing  air  of  the  summer 
morning  upon  the  water,  and  the  escape  of  Andrew, 
kindled  the  spirits  of  the  entire  party.  The  cook 
again  and  again  was  sure  that  "ho  knew  all  about 
it,"  and  the  boys  were  almost  certain  that  he  did, 
as  he  prepared  their  meals  for  them  now,  —  a  duty 
he  had  at  once  taken  upon  himself. 

"Isn't  that  a  boat,  Andrew?"  said  David,  point- 
ing down  the  river  near  the  shore  to  a  little  speck 
moving  over  the  water. 

"Yes,"  said  Andrew,  after  a  minute's  careful 
search.  "Yes,  it 's  a  skiff,  and  has  one  man  in  it. 
He  acts  as  if  he  were  coming  out  into  the  river." 

As  the  sailboat  swept  on,  the  other  boat  became 
plainer.  They  could  see  now  that  the  man  in  it  was 
as  interested  in  them  as  they  were  in  him.  In  a 
little  while  they  were  within  hailing  distance,  and 
the  man  in  the  skiff  called  to  them  to  stop. 

The  hermit  brought  his  boat  around,  and  as  the 
sail  flapped  in  the  wind,  and  the  motion  ceased,  the 
skiff  came  alongside. 


rt^mi-  ■  i-Mrii-^>W>"ii«  iMii  im  maai 


188 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"Mornin',  Mr.  Ogdcn,"  said  tho  newcomer  to  the 
h(>rmit.  "You've  quite  n  party  aboard.  I  didn't 
know  as  you  ever  liad  vlHitors. " 

The  hernut  smiled,  as  he  saw  the  boys  look  up  at 
the  mention  of  his  name,  and  then  he  replied  to 
tho  newcomer,  "Good  mornin',  Mr.  Reese.  I  don't 
have  many  callers,  that 's  true,  but  these  l)oy8  were 
talkin'  some  of  comin'  over  to  sec  you.  They  're 
from  over  by  Sackctt's  Harbor."  And  in  a  few  min- 
utes the  story  was  told.  Mr.  Reese  urged  the  boys 
to  go  homo  with  him;  but  now  that  Andrew  had 
been  rescued,  they  had  no  object  in  view  in  going  to 
his  home,  and  besides  they  were  anxious  to  get  away 
soon. 

"I  s'pose  you  've  heard  the  news,"  said  Mr.  Reese 
to  the  hermit. 

"  What  news  do  you  mean  ?  "  asked  he. 

"Why,  the  war  ?  "  replied  Mr.  Reese. 

"  War  ?  Has  war  been  declared  ?  "  asked  all 
together. 

"Yes,"  said  Mr.  Reese.  "A  man  came  along  on 
horseback  yesterday  on  his  way  to  Cape  Vincent, 
and  he  told  all  about  it.  Ye  see  the  'submission 
men, '  who  wanted  to  have  no  war,  were  defeated  in 
the  last  election,  and  the  '  war  men '  had  it  their 
own  way.  So  on  June  eighteenth  Congress  declared 
war.     At  least  that 's  what  the  messenger  said/' 

"  Well,  we  're  in  for  it, "  said  the  hermit.    "  We  're 


'^ 


A  SUUl'UISK   AT  TIIK   IIKKMIT'S   HOMK 


189 


bound  to  catch  it  along  tho  river.     Hut  tell  me,  arc 
wi-  in  liny  shape  for  a  war  with  Kngland  ?  " 

"0,  the  British  have  about  a  thouHand  vessels,  and 
sonic  of  them  arc  tho  most  powerful  boats  afloat. 
In  our  navy  we  have  about  a  do'/.en,  and  none  of 
them  arc  of  largo  size.  We  'vc  got  some  niiserablo, 
cheap  little  affairs,  called  gunboats,  besides,  but 
they  don't  amount  to  much. " 

"  I  'm  glad  it 's  come,"  said  Andrew.  "  I  've  had 
enough  to  show  me  that  we  'd  better  fight.  We  beat 
'em  once,  and  if  pluck  '11  do  it  we  can  again.  I 
believe  in  spelling  America  with  a  gr*'at  big  A.  If 
the  British  take  our  men,  we  ought  to  try  to  get  'em 
back,  anyway." 

Tho  little  party  was  all  excitement  now.  They 
said  good  by  to  Mr.  Reese,  and  were  soon  oflP  down 
the  river. 

"This  makes  matters  worse,"  said  tho  cook.  "I 
haven't  got  any  home  to  go  to,  but  I  don't  know 
when  I  '11  get  there  now.  If  it  was  n't  for  this  leg," 
and  he  brought  his  stump  emphatically  down,  "1 
know  where  1  'd  be.  Yes,  yes,  I  know  all  about  it," 
and  he  looked  ruefully  at  his  wooden  leg.  "I've 
been  in  the  navy  before,  and  I  'd  like  to  be  there 
again." 

"Mr.  Ogden,"  said  Andrew,  turning  to  the  her- 
mit, "do  you  think  we'd  better  go  to  your  house 
now  ?    Had  n't  we  better  land  and  start  for  home  ?  " 


190 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


The  old  man  smiled.  "You'd  have  as  much 
trouble  on  laud  as  you  would  on  the  lake  These 
boys  have  been  «rith  me  a  good  while  now,  and  they 
did  n't  even  know  my  name.  I  guess  you  'd  better 
follow  my  advice  now,  and  go  down  to  my  place, 
and  fit  out  that  boat  before  you  start.  This  war, 
you  see,"  he  added,  thoughtfully,  "changes  my  plans. 
Then  here  's  the  cook,"  he  added.  "If  he  's  goin' 
with  you,  he  could  n't  stump  it  through  the  woods." 

"Of  course  he's  going  with  us,"  said  Andrew. 
"  He  's  no  home,  and  we  '11  keep  him.  One  good  turn 
deserves  another.     He  's  had  a  tough  time  in  life." 

"  Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  murmured 
the  cook,  greatly  touched  by  the  sincerity  in  Andrew's 

words. 

"You  just  go  'long  with  me  to-night,"  said  the 
hermit,  "and  to-morrow  we  '11  see  what 's  best  to  be 
done.     I  'm  sure  that 's  the  best  thing  to  do." 

The  boys  assented.  They  were  watchful  now,  and 
more  silent,  as  they  came  among  the  islands.  They 
pointed  out  the  places  where  they  had  been  to 
Andrew  as  they  passed,  and  he  looked  upon  the 
beautiful  scenes  with  keen  interest. 

"That's  the  island  over  there  where  the  smug- 
glers' cave  is,  is  n't  it  ?  "  asked  Elijah,  as  the  her- 
mit changed  his  course  and  steered  to  the  east. 
Andrew  looked  up  quickly  to  where  Elijah  pointed, 
and  the  story  of  the  cave  was  told  lor  his  benefit. 


as  much 
These 
and  they 
'd  better 
ly  place, 
'his  war, 
uy  plans. 
3 's  goin' 
woods." 
Andrew, 
good  turn 
in  life." 
iiurmured 
Andrew's 

'  said  the 
best  to  be 

0." 

now,  and 

is.     They 

been   to 

upon  the 

;he  smug- 
3  the  her- 
the  east. 
I  pointed, 
euefit. 


A  SURl'llISE  AT  THE   HERMIT'S   HOME 


191 


"Yes,  that's  the  spot,"  said  the  hermit;  "but  I 
don't  think  we  '11  stop  there,  leastwise  not  to-day," 
he  added,  thoughtfully. 

An  hour  brought  them  in  sight  of  the  hermit's 
island. 

"  He  has  the  neatest  little  house  in  there  you  ever 
saw,"  said  David  to  Andrew.  " It 's  right  among  the 
trees,  and  you  never  could  see  it  from  one  side  of 
the  island  if  you  looked  a  week." 

But  they  were  ready  for  a  landing  now,  and  as  soon 
as  the  boat  was  made  fast,  they  all  started  for  the 
hermit's  house.  Henry  was  in  advance,  and  disap- 
peared among  the  trees.  In  a  minute  ho  came  back 
with  a  blank  look  upon  his  face.  "  Why,  the  house  's 
all  burned  up,"  he  said.  They  all  started  upon  the 
run,  and  found  his  v/ords  too  true.  Only  a  heap  of 
ashes  stood  where  once  the  house  had  been.  "Go 
down  to  the  boat-house,  boys,"  said  the  hermit.  In 
a  few  minutes  they  returned  upon  the  run,  with  the 
news  that  not  a  boat  was  there,  and  that  the  boat- 
house  itself  was  only  a  mass  of  charred  ruins. 


f 


liiiHiWiimnuMWi'tn 


192  rUE  SEAKOH  lOE  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  XXn 

THE  HEBMIT'B   DISCOVEBV 

T-HE  hermit  said  not  »  wo,d.     He  ca™'-"!;"- 
1      amlned  the  premises,  to  see  if  any   '»«>  °"^^ 
maraudc-s  could  be  found.     Mot.oumg  to  David  to 
r„r:  him,  he  left  the  party  hy  the  ™ns  of  h.s 
home  and  taking  the  slciff  rowed  over  to  h,s    farm. 
He«  another  scene  of  wanton  waste  was  sp.;^  on 
before  them.    Hi,  garden  was  m  rums     E>_™  "'« 
r^rbushes  had  been  broken  down,  and  h,s  beds  o£ 
vegetables  destroyed. 

His  face  only  grew  the  harder,  as  he  '"  *  ;»"' 
before  him,  and,  without  saying  a  word,  he  led  the 
^i  back  to  the  place  where  the  othe,.  were  wa.tmg. 
On  l,i  way  np  from  the  shore,  he  stopped  a  imnnte 
ash  saw  the  dead  bodies  of  his  kittens,  wh.ch  had 
e  identl,  bad  their  brains  dashed  out  sgamst  a  tree. 
Vte  lers  were  awaiting  their  'f".  f^'l*.  °" 
.be  ground  near  where  the  hermit's  home  for  thuty 

''".We  m  aUWru  in  now  and  help  you  build  another 
housT,"  said  Andrew.  "  I 'm  af  raid  a  1  th,,  has 
happened  to  you  because  you  -ve  been  a  tr.end  to  ns. 


"1 


refuUy  ex- 
race  of  the 
0  David  to 
lins  of  his 
is  "farm." 
spread  out 
Even  the 
his  beds  o£ 

w  the  ruins 
,  he  led  the 
ere  waiting, 
id  a  minute, 
,  which  had 
linst  a  tree, 
n,  seated  on 
le  for  thirty 

(uild  another 
all  this  has 
riend  to  us. 


THE  HERMITS  DISCOVEKY 


193 


"Well,  I  think  very  likely  it  was  the  party  that 
passed  us  on  our  way  to  Kingston  that  paid  me  a 
visit,"  said  the  hermit.  "Tliey  evidently  didn't 
thank  me  for  interfering  with  their  plans." 

"  That 's  just  the  reason  why  we  want  to  do  you  a 
good  turn  now." 

The  hermit  smiled,  and  was  silent  a  moment. 
"  No,  boys, "  said  he,  "  it  's  all  changed  now.  You  see 
war  's  been  declared,  and  that  changes  everything. 
I  don't  think  't  would  be  a  very  good  place  to  live 
in  down  here  now.  They  can't  get  my  islands  away 
from  me,  but  they  'd  burn  every  house  I  built." 

"Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  inter- 
posed the  cook. 

"No,  I  won't  stay  here,  for  a  while  anyway,"  con- 
tinued the  hermit.  "  You  hain't  any  boat  at  all  now, 
and  I  guess  I  '11  sail  away  and  take  ye  all  home  the 
first  thing  I  do.  There  's  nothing  here  to  keep  me 
any  longer.  They  did  n't  leave  me  oven  the  cradle. 
Not  as  I  needed  it,  though.  No,  I  '11  go  along  with 
ye.  Leastwise  if  it 's  agreeable  to  you,  I  will,"  he 
added. 

The  boys'  eyes  sparkled.  "  That 's  the  very  thing, " 
said  David.  "If  the  war's  come  we'll  need  your 
help,  and  you  '11  need  a  home.  I  know  my  father 
and  mother  would  be  glad  to  have  y©u  stay  at  our 
house  just  as  long  as  you  wanted  to.  You  and  the 
cook  too." 

13 


#     I 


194 


THE  SKAKCIl  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"That 's  80,"  said  Andrew,  emphatically. 

"I  thinl<  one  of  'em  might  go  over  to  our  houp.e 
and  stay,"  said  Elijah. 

The  hermit  smiled  and  said,  "We  '11  sec  about  it; 
but  the  first  thing  we  'vc  got  to  do  now  is  to  see  how 
wc  're  going  to  get  to  your  house.  But  I  've  a  new 
l)lan  to  suggest.  I  don't  love  those  smugglers  any. 
They  've  never  been  friends  o'  mine,  though  1  never 
had  any  trouble  with  'cm  afore.  But  now,  ye  see, 
war  's  been  declared.  All  that  truck  o'  theirs  over 
in  the  cave  is  fair  spoils  now.  I  wouldn't  mind 
making  a  little  prize  money  on  our  way  out,  would 
you  ?  "  and  he  looked  around  upon  the  company. 
"  Do  you  think  we  could  do  it  ? "  said  Andrew, 

quickly. 

"  I  rather  think  we  could.  I  had  a  little  experience 
in  that  line,  though  it  was  some  time  ago,"  replied 
the  hermit.     "  But  we  can't  do  anything  to-day. 

"  By  and  by  I  '11  take  a  run  over  to  the  island,  and 
see  how  the  land  lies." 

As  the  afternoon  passed  on,  the  hermit  took  his 
skiff,  and  with  the  cook  he  started  for  the  island 
where  the  cave  was,  leaving  the  boys  on  his  island, 
with  a  caution  to  keep  themselves  out  of  sight,  and 
to  wait  patiently  for  their  return. 

It  was  eveiing  when  they  came  back.  The  boys 
had  meanwhile  pitched  their  tent  in  a  clump  of 
hemlocks,  out  of  the  sight  of  all  passers  by.     They 


THE   HERMIT'S  DISCOVERY 


19: 


our  houRS 

0  about  it; 
to  sec  how 
[  've  a  new 
glcrs  any. 
gh  1  never 
)W,  ye  sec, 
iheirs  over 
In't  mind 
out,  would 
npany. 

d  Andrew, 

experience 
;o,"  replied 
;o-day. 
island,  and 

it  took  his 

the  island 

his  island, 

1  sight,  and 

The  boys 
\  clump  of 
i  by.     They 


had  some  supper  ready  when  the  exploring  party 
returned,  and  they  had  long  been  Avaiting  for  them. 
Elijah  had  stood  as  u  lookout,  and  reported  that  no 
boat  had  come  in  sight. 

Seated  on  the  ground  in  front  of  the  tent,  the  fire 
covered  as  soon  as  the  supper  had  been  prepared  to 
prevent  the  smoke  from  being  seen,  they  were  ready 
to  listen  to  the  report  of  the  hermit's  expedition. 

"We  didn't  see  anything  or  anybody  on  our  way 
over.  The  cook  here  thought  we  had  n't  better  land 
where  we  had  before,  but  go  round  to  the  other  side 
of  the  island,  so  I  followed  his  advice,  and  I  guess 
'twas  well  I  did," 

"  Why,  did  you  see  any  one  ?  "  inquired  David. 

"Just  wait  a  minute  and  I  '11  tell  ye,"  replied  the 
hermit.  "We  went  round  to  the  west  side,  and  run 
the  skiff  in  behind  some  rocks  out  o'  sight.  I  did  n't 
think  the  cook  could  walk  very  well  with  that 
wooden  leg  o'  his,  so  I  left  him  to  watch  the  skiff, 
and  told  him  to  whistle  if  he  saw  any  one." 

"Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  mur- 
mured the  individual  referred  to. 

"  Well,  I  crep'  in  through  the  trees  pretty  still 
like,  till  I  got  round  where  I  was  in  among  the  trees, 
and  yet  could  see  the  beginnin'  o'  the  gorge.  Well, 
what  do  you  s'pose  I  see  when  I  got  i#  sight  o'  the 
place  ?  " 

"What  did  you?"  asked  Henry  excitedly.  "A 
man  ?  " 


*id«MMbMlMMMiaM 


196 


THE  SEARCH  FOU  ANDREW  FIELD 


"Yes,  that's  just  it.  There  sat  a  man  on  the 
ground,  croas-leggcd  like  a  turkey." 

"Like  a  what  ?  "  asked  Andrew. 

"0,  my  brother  in  law  said  that  was  the  way 
those  fellows  over  in  Turkey  sat,  with  their  legs 
crossed  like  a  wilier  chair.  Well,  that 's  the  way 
this  feller  was.  He  wa'n't  right  in  front  o'  the  gorge, 
but  a  little  to  one  side,  and  kind  o'  hid  in  some 
bushes.  If  we  'd  come  up  as  we  first  thought,  —  as  I 
thought,"  he  added,  "as  the  cook  gave  a  grunt,  — 
why,  he  could  have  seen  us,  and  we  could  n't  have 
seen  him  at  all.  'T  was  lucky  we  did  follow  the 
cook's  plan," 

The  hermit  hastened  to  resume  his  story  as  a  "  Yes, 
yes,  I  know,"  began  to  come  forth  from  the  cook's 
lips. 

"  Well,  ye  see,  I  was  puzzled  like  fer  a  little.  I 
did  n't  know  whether  anybody  was  inside.  I  rather 
suspected  there  was.  But  while  I  was  a  waitin' 
and  puzzlin'  my  head,  1  see  the  guard  take  his  gun, 
and  stand  up  and  listen  like.  lie  seemed  to  hear 
some  rne,  though  I  could  n't  hear  anybody  where  I 
was.  Pretty  quick  he  crept  out  to  the  edge  o'  the 
bushes,  and  peeked  out  across  the  river.  'T  was 
plain  he  see  somethin',  fer  he  looked  and  listened  a 
long  time.  Just  then  there  came  a  whistle,  and  he 
jumped  up  and  stood  there  waitin'." 
"What  did  he  do  then?"  asked  Henry, 


D 


lan  on  iho 


s  the  way 
their  IcRS 
's  the  way 
'  the  gorge, 
d  in  gome 
ght,  —  as  I 
I  grunt,  — 
Id  n't  have 
follow  the 

as  a  "  Yes, 
the  cook's 

a  little.  I 
.  I  rather 
}  a  waitin' 
kc  his  gun, 
aed  to  hear 
iy  where  I 
edge  o'  the 
ir.  'T  was 
[  listened  a 
tie,  and  he 


THE   HERMIT'S  DISCOVERY 


197 


"Pretty  quick  I  heard  two  boats  a  coniiii',  «n  I 
peeked  out  from  whore  I  was.  One  of  'em  was  the 
boat  you  left  here,  and  t'  other  was  a  bigger  one. " 

"Tiicn  they  did  steal  our  boats,"  said  Andi-ew. 
"  I  just  knew  't  was  those  smugglers  thut  did  the 
damage  round  here." 

"Like  enough,"  responded  the  hermit.  "Indeed, 
I  have  n't  rauch  doubt  of  it.  Well,  pretty  quick  the 
boats  landed,  and  I  heard  another  whistle.  This 
time  the  guard  answered  it,  and  ran  down  to  the 
shore.  'T  was  n't  long  before  I  saw  'em  a  tuggin' 
and  puUin',  bringin'  the  biggest  lot  o'  guns  and 
l)i8tol8  up  to  the  gorge  ye  ever  saw.  They  went 
back  —  there  was  five  on  'em  —  again,  and  made  as 
many  as  a  dozen  trips,  I  guess. " 

"Did  they  bring  guns  and  pistols  every  time?" 
asked  David. 

'  1  was  a  goin'  to  tell  ye.  They  brought  up  guns 
enough  to  supply  a  regiment,  I  guess.  They  left  the 
guns  all  there  by  the  openin'  o'  the  gorge,  and  one  of 
'era  stayed  with  the  guard,  and  four  of  'em  went 
down  to  the  boat  and  brought  up  a  chest.  'T  was 
heavy,  I  guess,  from  the  way  they  tugged  at  it. " 

"  What  was  in  it  ?  "  asked  Henry. 

"Not  looking  in  it,  I  can't  say,"  said  the  hermit, 
smiling.  "The  four  who  brought  the  chest  carried 
it  in  out  of  sight.  They  were  gone  about  an  hour,  I 
guess,  and  then  they  came  out.  Then  they  all  sat 
down  on  the  ground  and  began  to  talk. " 


198 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 


"I  could  n't  just  hear  what  ihoy  was  a  savin'  whore 
I  was,  80  I  crcftt  round  a  littl(!  nearer.  Then  1  see 
that  one  of  'cm  was  that  felhn-  that  was  stccrin'  that 
boat  o'  yours, —the  Pilot  I  think  you  said  was  the 
name  of  her,  though  I  don't  name  my  boats." 
"Then  'twas  Smith,"  said  David,  excitedly. 
"  What  Smith  ?  "  asked  Andrew,  and  they  stopped 
to  toll  of  their  adventures  with  that  individual 
before  the  hermit  resumed  his  story. 

"  I  could  hear  every  word  they  said  where  I  was, 
and  I  tell  you  I  was  mighty  interested  in  what  they 
did  say.      It  seems  they  knew  of  the  war  's  bcin' 
declared,  and  they  were  scared.     I  found  out  that 
they  had  three  other  places  where  they  kept  things. 
They  had  been  bringin'  everything  to  this  place  for 
the  past  few  days,  and  clearin'  out  the  others.     They 
didn't  feel  very  safe  like  over   them,  but  I  heard 
Smith  say,  '  Nobody  on  earth  would  think  o'  lookin' 
here,'  and  'This  was  the  safest  one  of   'em  all.' 
They  did  n't  know  they  had  such  a  good  audience,  I 
guess,"   said  the  hermit,  chuckling.      "Well,"  he 
resumed,  "  it  seems  they  're  afraid  of  the  Canadian 
officers  now  as  much  as  they  are  of  ours,  for  the  war 
puts  an  end  to  all  kinds  o'  tradin',  and  they  like 
prize  money  over  there  as  well  as  we  do. " 

«  How  long  did  the  men  stay  there  ?  "  asked  David. 

"0,  they  talked  on  for  an  hour,  I  guess,"  said  the 

hermit.     "  It  seems  they  had  brought  most  all  they 


THE   HERMIT'S   DISCOVERY 


199 


rln'  whore 
riieu  1  SCO 
iorin'  lluvt 
d  was  the 

8." 

ey  stopped 
individual 

lerc  I  was, 

what  they 

ir  's  bein' 

1  out  that 

;pt  thinjis. 

i  place  for 

ers.     They 

ut  I  heard 

:  o'  lookin' 

;    'em  all.' 

audience,  I 

Well,"  he 

3  Canadian 

for  the  war 

i  they  like 
> 

iked  David. 
8,"  said  the 
3Bt  all  they 


wore  fTDin 


to.  Two  more  trips,  I  hoard  'om  say, 
was  all  Ihoro  was  to  niako,  au<l  thoy  'ro  goin'  to 
make  Vm  to-night.  Thon  thoy  'ro  goin'  to  get  a 
boat  to  come  and  take  'cm  all  away." 

"  When  in  tho  bont  coming  ?  Is  it  the  Osprey  ?  " 
askod  Andrew. 

"  I  don't  know.  Very  likely  it 's  the  Osprey,  but 
I  did  n't  hear.  Now  if  we  do  anything,  we  '11  have 
to  do  it  to-morrow  or  next  day.  They  '11  be  takin' 
the  things  away  pretty  quick,  and  our  prize  money  '11 
all  be  gone.    But  I  think  we  'd  better  turn  in  now." 

The  boys  had  prepared  a  bed  of  the  branches  they 
had  cut,  but  it  was  not  thought  wise  to  have  any  fire. 
The  air  was  cool,  but,  accustomed  as  they  were  to  an 
outdoor  life,  they  little  minded  that. 

A  guard,  it  was  decided,  was  necessary,  and  the 
cook  insisted  that  upon  himself  should  devolve  that 
duty.  "I  know,  I  know  all  about  it.  Besides,  I 
can't  do  the  trampin'  some  o'  ye  can,  so  I  want  to 
do  what  I  can."  And  with  the  cook  seated  on  the 
ground,  with  his  back  against  a  tree,  and  yet  in  a 
position  where  he  could  command  a  view  of  the  camp 
and  river  both,  the  rest  of  the  party  entered  tho 
tent.     They  were  soon  asleep,  and  silence  reigned 

over  all. 

The  night  was  only  partly  gone,  when  Andrew 
thought  he  heard  some  one  calling.  He  roused  him- 
self, and  listened  sharply. 


200 


THE  SEARCH  FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 


"Mr.  Ogdon!  Mr.  Ogdon!"  heonnld  honrit  plainly 
now,  and  (luickly  risiiif?,  without  diHtuH-ing  the 
other  sleepers,  he  stepped  forth  out  of  the  tent.  The 
cook  was  there,  and  whispered  to  him  to  come 
quickly  with  him.  Andrew  followed  to  the  place 
where  the  cook  had  been  on  guard,  when  his  com- 
panion suddenly  pulled  his  arm,  and  asked  him  to 
stop  and  listen. 

Andrew  obeyed.  He  listened,  and  then,  turning 
♦quickly,  listened  again.  Above  the  rippling  of  the 
waters  on  the  shore  he  heard  something  that  startled 
him.  It  was  the  sound  of  oars  falling  regularly  into 
the  water. 


ir  it  plainly 
irliiiig  the 
tent.  The 
n  to  come 
}  the  place 
n  his  com- 
ked  him  to 

icn,  turning 
pling  of  the 
hat  startled 
gularly  into 


A  PKWUJ»KR 


201 


CHAPTER  XXIII 


A    PRISONER 


THERE  was  a  boat  evidently  approaching;  there 
was  no  attempt  made  to  muflle  the  oars.  As 
the  sound  of  them  became  plainer,  Andrew  could 
hear  voices  in  conversation.  lie  crept  nearer  the 
water  and  took  his  stand  behind  a  tree  on  a  bank, 
high  over  the  river  beneath.  He  was  completely 
hidden  from  the  view  of  any  one  upon  the  river,  and 
yet  ho  could  see,  though  somewhat  dimly,  what  was 
occurring  there.  There  was  no  moon,  but  the  stars 
could  be  seen,  and  his  eyes  were  accustomed  now  to 
the  dimness. 

As  the  boat  came  under  the  bluff  on  which  Andre\7 
Btood,  he  jMjrceived  that  two  men  were  in  it,  and 
that  they  rested  on  their  oars  there.  He  could  dis- 
tinguish their  words  now,  as  they  conversed,  and  he 
listened  closely. 

"Don't  you  think,  Smith,"  said  one,  "that  we'd 
better  land  and  look  over  the  hermit's  island  a  little  ? 
Mebbe  he  's  been  back." 

"No,  he  hasn't,"  replied  Smith,  for  it  was  this 
omnipresent  smuggler  in  the  boat.     "Those  boys 


^pp— •>•*»" 


202 


TIIK  SKAHCII   FOK  ANDUKNV   FIKU) 


I 


wi'ic  trying  ns  hard  as  over  thoy  could  to  p-i  out  o' 
tliiH  rivcM".  Don't  you  remember  how  thcv  ailed  to 
MH  when  they  hcc  uh  ii  Hiiilin'  l>y  in  their  l)Oftt  'i  Wall, 
this  iiere  hermit  were  with  'em,  and  they  was  tryin' 
to  >?et  away. " 

"Well,  if  you  thoufrht  tlu-y  was  tryin'  to  <ret  away, 
what  did  yc  want  to  set  his  HtulT  aliro  here  the  otlier 
day,  for  ?  " 

"0,  he  'U  come  hack;  but  not  jest  yot.  I  hardly 
think  we  'd  better  stop  now.  He  is  n't  here,  and  if 
he  was  he  could  n't  bother  us.  The  boys  is  gone 
now,  and  we've  got  all  our  stiilT  together;  and  it 
won't  be  but  a  day  or  two  afore  we  git  it  off,  and  then 
good  by  to  the  whole  crowd,  I  say." 

Their  voices  dropped  a  little,  and  Andrew  could 
only  catch  the  word  "  chest."  It  was  repeated  several 
times,  but  in  what  connection  ho  could  not  learn. 
But  after  a  brief  pause  their  voices  rose  again. 

"  Wall,  Smith,  we  '11  do  as  you  say ;  only  I  thought, 
seein'  as  we  was  right  here,  it  would  n't  do  any  harm 
to  take  a  little  look  at  things  and  sec," 

"No  use,"  replied  Smith,  and  Andrew  heard  the 
oars  dipped  in  the  water  again,  and  then  the  sounds 
became  fainter  and  soon  ceased  to  be  heard.  Andrew 
hesitated.  Should  he  return  to  the  camp  and  rouse 
the  sleepers  ?  They  could  do  nothing  now,  for  the 
boat  had  gone,  and  evidently  was  not  coming  back 
soon.     On  the  other  hand,  when  he  thought  of  what 


out  o' 

llrd   to 

Wall, 

tr}  in' 

,  away, 
i  other 

hardly 
and  if 

»  gone 
and  it 

nd  then 

I  could 
several 
;  learn. 

Iiought, 
\y  harm 

ard  the 
sounds 
Andrew 
d  rouse 
for  the 
ig  back 
of  what 


A  rnisoNEu 


203 


Hmith  hud  said  about  everything  being  there  in  the 
cave  now,  and  that  soon  all  would  be  taken  away,  ho 
hardly  knew  what  to  do.  Ibil  he  soon  (U'cided  that 
he  would  rouse  the  party,  and  that  a  eonsultation 
would  be  \\w  best. 

Accordingly,  he  retunu'<l  to  the  camp.  In  a 
moment  all  were  awake  and  gathered  together  in 
front  of  the  tent,  listening  to  Andrew's  story.  All 
were  silent  for  a  time,  waiting  for  the  hermit  to 
speak;  but  as  ho  remained  silent  and  thoughtful, 
Andrew  said,  "Did  I  do  right  to  rouse  you  out  to- 
night, Mr.  Ogden  ?  1  did  n't  know  whether  to  do  it 
or  not." 

"Yea,  Andrew,  it  was  just  right,"  replied  the 
hermit  slowly.  "But  I've  been  thinkin'  what's 
best  to  bo  done  Ye  see,  whatever  we  do,  we  've  got 
to  be  in  a  hu  ry  about.  Yo  did  n't  hear  'em  say 
what  day  they  was  comin'  back  to  the  cave,  did  ye  ?  " 

"No,"  said  Andrew.  "This  man.  Smith,  said  in 
a  day  or  two.     That 's  all  1  heard." 

"  My  opinion  is  that  we  'd  better  start  early  in  the 
mornin'  and  go  to  the  cave,  and  then  git  out  just  as 
lively  as  we  can." 

"What,  this  morning?"  asked  Andrew. 

"Yes,  this  mornin',"  replied  the  hermit,  a  little 
sharply.  "  We  '11  have  to  start  afore  sunrise.  Now 
the  rest  on  ye,  ye  go  to  sleep,  and  1  'II  go  down  and 
get  the  boat  ready.     I  guess  we  've  got  pretty  nigh 


iBiiuiiiiWii 


204 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


enough  to  eat,  and  it's  lucky  we  have,  fer  we  won't 
get  much  on  this  island.  1  '1!  call  ye  in  the  mornin', 
and  now  all  of  ye  turn  in.  I' 11  be  all  the  guard  we 
need,  and  I'll  fix  the  boat  in  shape." 

He  refused  all  offers  of  aid,  and  started  for  the 
shore.  The  rest  of  the  party  waited  a  few  minutes, 
and  then  decided  to  follow  the  hermit's  suggestion, 
and  were  all  soon  asleep  in  the  tent. 

It  was  still  dark  when  the  low  voice  of  the  hermit 
aroused  them.  They  were  quickly  with  him,  and  in 
silence  they  all  started  for  the  boat,  the  hermit  in 
advance  and  the  cook  acting  as  rear  guard. 

The  sail  was  raised,  and  the  tent  put  on  board. 
The  few  eatables  that  could  be  secured  from  the 
ruins  of  the  garden  were  taken,  and  soon  the  party 
was  slowly  moving  on  over  the  river.  The  wind  was 
light  and  the  progress  accordingly  was  slow ;  and  it 
was  broad  daylight  before  they  came  in  sight  of  the 
island  on  which  the  cave  was. 

"1  think,"  said  the  hermit,  "that  we  'd  better  fol- 
low the  course  the  cook  and  I  took.  We  '11  go  round 
to  the  other  side  of  the  island  first,  and  come  at  the 
cave  that  way.  Then,  if  the  way  's  all  clear,  we  '11 
bring  the  boat  around. " 

"  Do  you  think  we  '11  find  any  one  there  ?  "  asked 
Elijah. 

"Wall,  I  rather  suspect  wj  shall,"  replied  the 
hermit. 


X^ 


we  won't 
mornin', 
guard  we 

i  for  the 
minutes, 
ggestion, 

le  hermit 
1,  and  in 
lermit  in 

)n  board, 
from  the 
the  i)arty 
wind  was 
w;  and  it 
;ht  of  the 

better  fol- 

go  round 

»me  at  the 

ear,  we  '11 

?"  asked 

J  pi  led  the 


A   I'KISONEU 


205 


"What  'U  vo  do  if  there  's  two  or  three  of  'cm  ?  " 

in<iuirod  David. 

"If  there's  too  many,  why  we '11  pull  out  and 
leave,  for  it  won't  do  to  tarry  in  this  region  very 
long.  But  I  don't  like  to  leave  them  things  here 
without  tryin'  to  get  'em.  However,  I  think  1  'd 
rather  lose  'em  than  to  leave  ?uy  o'  you  boys  here 
and  have  to  take  only  part  o'  ye  home.  What  'd 
your  father  and  mother  say  to  that?" 

The  boys  were  silent  again.  They  had  great  con- 
fidence in  their  leader,  but  the  glances  they  cast  at 
one  another  occasionally  showed  that  they  all  were 
a  little  afraid,  and  all  alike  afraid  to  confess  it. 

The  boat  was  soon  landed  on  the  spot  the  hermit 
and  cook  had  found  on  their  piKivious  journey,  and 
the  little  party  leaped  ashore.  Each  carried  a  gini, 
for  although  they  did  not  expect  to  use  them,  they 
know  they  might  be  thrown  upon  the  defensive.  The 
cook  was  left  to  guard  the  boat,  and  all  the  rest  of 
the  party,  except  Andrew,  the  hermit  soon  sent  back 
to  the  boat,  preferring  to  have  only  one  with  him 
as  he  went  to  see  what  was  before  them. 

In  what  seemed  to  the  boys  a  very  short  time, 
Andrew  came  back  to  the  boat  on  the  run.  To  the 
boys'  eager  questions  he  only  replied  that  they  were 
to  stay  where  they  were  until  they  were  summoned, 
and  that  all  he  knew  was  that  the  hermit  had  left 
him  when  they  were  about  a  hundred  yards  from  the 


I"  ■     mill 


mm^ 


206 


TIIK   SEAUCIl   FOU  ANUUEW   FIELD 


cave,  and  had  gone  on  alone,  and  that  he  hud  soon 
returned  to  Andrew  and  told  him  to  run  for  the  boat, 
as  fast  as  ho  coukl,  and  bring  to  him  a  coil  of  rope, 
which  he  said  was  in  the  cabin. 

This  rope  Andrew  (piiciily  took,  and  was  soon  out 
of  sight  again  among  the  trees.  The  boys  were  all 
impatience  now,  and  it  was  only  with  the  greatest 
dilliculty  that  the  cook  could  prevent  their  following 
the  course  which  Andrew  had  taken. 

in  about  an  hour  Andrew  returned  and  told  them 
that  they  all,  including  the  cook,  were  to  follow  him 
as  rapidly  as  they  could,  and  he  started  off  through 
the  trees  again  toward  the  cave.  The  cook  was  soon 
hjft  far  behind ;  but  he  could  see  where  the  boys  had 
been,  and  as  he  puffed  along  he  occasionally  found 
time  to  stop  for  a  moment  and  wipe  his  fore- 
head and  ejaculate,  '"  Yes,  yes,  1  know,  I  know  all 
'about  it," 

It  was  a  strange  sight  he  saw,  when  finally  he 
came  up  to  the  boys  and  found  them  with  the  hermit 
near  the  entrance  to  the  cave.  Fast  bound  to  a  tre<} 
was  a  man,  a  stranger  to  the  cook;  his  arms  were 
clasped  about  a  tree,  and  his  hands  tied  on  the  other 
side.  The  prisoner  could  not  see  the  party  without 
turning  his  head,  and  as  this  was  impossible,  except 
to  a  slight  degree,  he  could  not  see  the  cook  as  he 
came  up. 

"I  was  just  a  tcUin'  the  boys,"  said  the  hermit, 


hud  soon 

the  boat, 

1  of  rope, 

soon  out 
i  were  all 
!  greatest 
i'ollowint? 

told  them 
dUow  him 
f  through 
was  soon 
boys  had 
illy  found 
his   fore- 
know all 

finally  he 
he  hermit 
I  to  a  tre'i 
irms  were 
the  other 
:y  without 
lie,  except 
ook  as  he 

e  hermit, 


A  PRISONER 


207 


"  about  this  fellow  as  you  came  up.     You  see,  when 
1  crept  on  through  the  \^  oods,  and  by  and  by  came 
in  sight  of  the  gorge,  I  could  n't  see  any  guard.     I 
thought  that  was   mighty   funny,  and   did  n't  know 
but  he  was  inside.     I  was  just  a  goin'  to  creep  up 
and  peek  in,  when  what  should  I  see  but  this  here 
guard,"  and  he  pointed  to  the  stranger,  "a  sittin'  un- 
der one  of  the  trees  fast  asleep.    The  sun  was  a  shinin' 
right  into  his  face,  and  his  gun  had  fallen  over  on 
the  ground.     I  noticed  his  head  had  kind  o'  fallen 
over  on  one  side,  and  I  thought  1  might  just  catch 
him  with  a  rope  jest  same  as  1  snare  sturgeon  some- 
times; so  1  sent  Andrew  on  the  run  back  to  the  boat 
for  a  rope  1  knew  was  there.     I  was  mortal  'fraid 
the  fellow  'd  wake  up  afore  Andrew  could  get  back 
again,  but  thank  fortune  he  didn't,  fer  all  the  suni 
was  a  shinin'  right  plump  inter  his  face."  ^    i 

"I'd  been  awake  all  night,"  called  out  the  pris- 
oner. "  I  guess  you  'd  be  tired  out  if  you  'd  been  a 
liftin'  and  puUin'  all  night  long.  1  don't  know  's 
I  care  much  if  1  did  get  asleep.  Smith  might  have 
staj-d  himself;  he's  always  shovin'  the  mean  part 
off  on  me. " 

"Just  say  good  by  for  us,  will  you,  to  Mr.  Smith  ?  " 
said  David.  "  I  understand  he  thought  we  left  him 
the  other  night  without  being  as  polite  as  we  ought 
to.  Tell  him,  if  he'll  bring  back  the  I'ilut,  we'll 
say  good  morning  too." 


mmmm 


208  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

"Well,"  continued  the  hermit,  "I  made  a  noose 
in  the  rope,  and  crept  up  still 's  I  could.  I  kep'  a 
stoppin'  behind  most  every  tree,  fearin'  he  'd  wake 
up  and  I  'd  have  to  try  another  plan  to  quiet  him. 
But  I  got  up  there  within  a  yard  o'  him  afore  he 
stirred,  and  then,  just  as  he  was  beginnin'  to  move, 
I  clapped  the  noose  right  over  his  head,  and  I  had 
him  like  a  sucker." 

"  What  'd  he  do  ?  '*  asked  David,  laughing. 

"Why,  I  don't  jest  know.  He  acted  like  as  if  he 
was  goin'  to  say  somethin',  but  he  kind  o'  grabbed 
at  his  neck,  and  I  drew  the  rope  so  tight  he  could  n't 
even  squeal.  I  did  n't  give  him  any  time  either,  for 
1  just  called  Andrew,  a'ld  before  he  knew  it,  we  had 
him  a  huggiu'  that  tree,  just  as  ye  see  him  now. 
But  we  must  be  at  work,"  he  continued.  "Henr}-, 
you  stay  on  guard  here,  and  see  that  this  man 
does  n't  get  away ;  and  if  ye  see  any  signs  o'  any 
one  coniin',  jest  shout  or  whistle  as  loud  as  ye 
can."  And,  leading  the  way,  he  dropped  over  into 
the  entrance  to  the  gorge,  an  example  which  the 
others  quickly  followed,  and  soon  were  out  of  sight 
on  their  way  to  the  cave. 


L 


de  a  nooso 
I  kep'  a 
he  'd  wake 
quiet  him. 
n  afore  he 
i'  to  move, 
and  I  had 

ng- 

ike  as  if  he 

o'  grabbed 

le  could  u't 

either,  for 

it,  we  had 

him  now. 

"  Henry, 

this  man 
a;ns  o'  any 
oud  as  ye 
I  over  into 
which  the 
it  of  sight 


-,.#y'i'^^/ 


,  i.Ai'i'i.ii   I  HK  Mni>i':  Kii;ii  I    ii\  i.i;   in- 


/\,^un\h<i\<\  Sliute^ 


■  All."        \'m1'-  -l'^- 


.-■■■■■      i«fc^^B*>i^' 


V 


mm^rmi  tiim'mfi»^i>r' 


A  CAUGU  FOB  THE  BOAT 


209 


CHAPTER  XXIV 


A   CARUO   FOR  THB   BOAT 


"  I  ^flE  little  party  soon  found  its  way  to  the  cave. 
"^  As  they  approached,  the  hermit  increased  his 
caution,  being  a  little  fearful  of  guards  or  men  being 
there.  But  they  were  not  molested,  and  soon  stood 
within  the  cave. 

"  What  a  lot  there  is  here  now,"  said  David. 
"There's  twice  as  much  as  there  was  when  we 
were  here  before,  isn't  there  Elijah?" 

"  Yes,"  said  Elijah,  "  I  guess  there's  moro'n  that." 

But  the  hermit,  who  took  entire  control,  soon  made 
an  investigation. 

"  It 's  mostly  guns  and  powder.  They  're  either 
goin'  into  the  war  themselves,  or  else  they  're  goin' 
to  make  some  money  out  of  it.  O,  no,"  he  added  in 
a  moment,  "here's  some  other  stuff.  I  don't  just 
know  what.  It's  cloth,  though,  of  some  kind.  To 
make  women's  dresses  of,"  he  said,  after  an  exami- 
nation.   "  My  !  but  its  fine." 

Each  one  of  the  party  was  soon  loaded  wivh  all 
that  he  could  carry,  and  they  commenced  their  n  turn. 
There  was  some  difficulty  in  getting  that  which  they 

u 


210 


TIIK   SKAKCII  rOli  ANIJKKW    VIVAA) 


:{■ 


carried  up  out  of  the  entrance  of  tlic  gorge  upon  tho 
ground.  But  this  was  done  aftor  a  time,  and  the 
rosultH  of  their  journey  made  quite  an  imi)08iug  pile, 
when  hea|)ed  together. 

"  Now  1  propose  that  the  cook  go  round  and  bring 
tlio  boat  here.  It  won  *t  tal<o  very  long,  and  while 
he 's  doin'  that,  wc  '11  go  in  after  some  more.  I  siis- 
pect  that  path  we  see  in  there's  a  shorter  cut,  but  1 
don't  believe  we'd  better  make  any  new  investiga- 
tions. We  've  got  the  hardest  day's  work  before  us 
we  ever  had,"  said  the  hermit,  as  the  cook  set  out 
through  the  woods,  and  the  hermit,  after  examining 
the  rope  that  boimd  their  prisoner,  led  the  way  into 
the  gorge  again. 

Two  more  trips  were  made  before  the  cook  had 
brought  their  boat.  He  was  now  left  to  guard  the 
prisoner,  and  to  k(  ep  a  watch  for  in  crruptions  from 
without.  After  two  more  trips  had  been  completed, 
the  hermit  proposed  that  they  should  load  what  they 
had  on  board  their  boat.  "  In  case  we  have  to  hurry 
away,"  he  said. 

When  this  work  had  been  done,  and  they  were  re- 
turning for  another  trip  to  the  cave,  Andrew  suddenly 
stopped  and  exclaimed :  — 

"Don't  you  remember  how,  last  night,  I  said  I 
heard  Smith  speak  of  a  chest?  You  know  they 
talked  lower  when  they  were  speaking  of  it,  but 
maybe  it's  something  in  the  cave." 


I'g.iir.n.BIB 


ipon  tlio 
and  the 
ling  pile, 

1(1  bring 
id  wliilc 

I  8II8- 

lit,  but  1 
[ivestiga- 
Dcfore  US 
:  set  out 
iainining 
way  into 

;ook  bnd 
uard  the 
ouB  from 
)inf)letcd, 
bat  they 
to  hurry 

were  re- 
8uddenly 

I  said  I 
ow  they 
)f   it,  but 


A  CAKCO   FOU  TIIK   HOAT 


Stl 


"  That 'h  80,"  said  Klijah.  "Let's  hjok  again  and 
Bcc  if  we  can't  find  it." 

So  the  party  searched  diligently  when  they  came  to 
the  cave,  hut  no  trace  of  a  cliest  could  be  found.  A 
search  outside  proved  to  be  ecjually  fruitless,  and  at 
last  each  made  his  load  of  that  which  ho  found,  and 
together  they  returned  to  the  shore;. 

The  hermit  had  said  nothing  when  Andrew  had 
Bpt)ken  of  a  chest,  though  he  had  entered  diligently 
into  the  search  for  it.  IJut  when  they  had  deposited 
their  loads  on  the  boat  and  come  bock  to  the  gorge, 
he  turned  to  their  prisoner  and  said,  "  Where  's  that 
chest  Smith  brought  here  ?  " 

*•  Don't  you  wish  you  knew  ? "  said  the  prisoner. 

« I  think  wc  shall  know,  but  if  we  don't,  I  think 
the  exchange  of  so  good  a  man  as  yo<i,  if  we  take  you 
over  to  Sackett's  Harbor,  will  be  worth  about  as  much 
as  what  was  in  that  chest.  Come,  now,"  ho  added, 
"you  tell  us  where  it  is,  and  like  enough,  when 
we  get  through  here,  you  might  get  away.     Who 

knows  ? " 

The   prisoner  hesitated.     Finally  he  said,  "  Who 

are  ye,  anyway  ?" 

"0,  these  boys  live  over  by  Sackett's  Harbor. 
We  're  all  going  there  too." 

"Then  you  ain't  custom  officers  V"  asked  the  pris- 
oner eagerly. 

"  No  sir ! "  said  David  with  emphasis. 


212 


TIIK  8KAUCII   FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"  Well,  I  don't  know,"  said  the  man  slowly.  "  I 
don't  owe  Smith  any  love.  lie  never  did  deal  squarely 
with  me,  and  he  got  mo  into  it  agin  my  will.  Ho 
said  we  d  malic  a  pile  o'  money,  and  then  clear  out. 
I  haven't  had  a  shillin'  yet.  lie's  always  a  goin'  to 
get  me  some.  But  I  don't  know  what 's  in  the  chest 
anyway,"  he  added.  "  I  don't  know  as  it 's  any  good. 
What  '11  ye  do,  if  I  tell  ye  where  it  is  ? " 

"  O,  w  '11  go  away  and  leave  you  here.  We  ought 
to  take  ye  'long  with  us,  and  shut  ye  up  as  a  prisoner 
of  war.  But  if  ye  tell  us  pretty  quick  now,  I  guess 
we  '11  let  ye  off." 

"  0,  but  I  don't  want  ter  stay  here  now.  Smith  '11 
kill  me  sure.   But  I  don't  want  to  go  with  you  either." 

"Well,  I'll  tell  you  what  we'll  do,"  said  the 
hermit.  "  We  '11  take  you  off  'n  this  island,  and  land 
you  on  another,  and  you  can  then  shift  for  yourself." 

"  But  I  would  n't  have  any  boat,  and  what  could 
I  do?" 

The  hermit  perceived  that  the  fellow  was  a  little 
simple-minded,  so  he  changed  his  tactics. 

"  We  've  got  a  skiff  here  and  we  '11  put  you  mto  it, 
and  you  can  go  where  you  choose,  just  as  soon  as  you 
tell  us  where  that  chest  is  hid." 

"  Well,  then,  it 's  right  in  the  side  o'  the  rock  in 
this  openin'  to  the  gorge.  I  don't  know's  there's 
anything  in  it,  and  they  didn't  tell  me,  but  I 
see  'em  put  it  there.     There's  a  rock  comes  out 


^^^^^^ 


A  CAIUJO  FOR  THK  BOAT 


m 


right  thcro  on  the  left,  and  it  'b  in  tht'ie.     Now  lot 
mo  go." 

"  Not  yet,  wc  '11  wait  and  bgo  what 's  this  yon  'vo 
boon  tcllin'  ns,"  said  tlio  hermit,  as  ho  Htartcd  for  the 
spot  indicated  by  tho  priHonor. 

"  Strango  if  they  did  put  anything  of  value  right 
here,"  said  Andrew. 

"  0,  I  don't  know,"  said  the  hermit.  "  Sometimes 
the  most  open  spot '»  the  best  to  hide  things  in.  They 
don't  think  o'  lookin'  there.  They  most  always  will 
go  a  peckin'  about  tho  other  places,  and  just  step 
right  over  and  never  think  o'  lookin'  in  such  places 
as  this."  And  as  he  gave  an  added  pull,  the  rock 
fell  out,  and  disclosed  a  small  iron-bound  chest 
that  nearly  filled  the  space  into  which  it  had  been 

placed. 

*'  I  don't  believe  I  can  get  it  out  alone,"  said  ho 
after  two  or  three  strong  pulls.  "Take  hold  here 
with  me,  Andrew." 

They  pulled  hard  together  and  tho  chest  started. 
"  How  '11  we  ever  get  it  out  of  this  and  up  on  the 
ground  ?  I  wish  we  ccld  open  it  and  take  what 's 
in  and  leave  the  old  chest  i>chind.  But  it's  fast,  and 
I  don't  believe  we  can  get  it  open  at  all,"  ho  added, 
"at  least  without  tools." 

The  hermit  went  back  to  the  prisoner.  "Now," 
said  he,  "  If  wo  untie  you  and  let  you  go,  what  '11 
you  do?" 


214 


THE  SEARCH  FOK  ANDREW  Fn:LI) 


"  I  '11  tivkc  that  skiff  and  leave,"  he  replied. 

"  I  don't  much  like  the  idea  o'  letiin'  you  go.  No 
one  knows  where  you'll  go.  But  1  don't  think  you 
can  hurt  us  any,  as  we're  going  to  leave,  too."  And 
he  untied  the  ropes  and  let  the  man  go  free. 

They  stopped  for  a  few  minutes  to  watch  him  as 
he  tried  to  run  for  the  shore.  Just  before  he  came  to 
the  skiff  Andrew  called  out,  "Hold  on  a  minute." 
And  running  down  to  the  boat  he  took  one  of  tho 
oars  away,  saying,  »  We  didn't  agree  to  give  you  two 
oars.     One  will  paddle  you  off  as  fast  as  you  ought 

to  go." 

The  man  stood  up  in  the  skiff,  and- used  his  paddle 
so  vigorously  that  he  was  soon  hidden  from  view  by 
an  intervening  island. 

"  1  'm  more  'n  half  afraid  we  made  a  mistake  in 
letting  him  go.  He  didn't  know  much,  and  I  think 
we  could  have  found  out  about  the  chest  from  him. 
But,  however,  he's  gone,  and  we  must  finish  our 
work.  The  boat's  got  a  good  cargo  now,  and  I  don't 
dare  load  her  much  more,  for  we  may  want  to  make 
time,  perhaps,  in  leaving  these  islands." 

"  But  we  want  this  chest,"  he  added,  as,  taking  the 
rope  which  had  bound  their  prisoner,  he  made  it 
double,  as  he  wrapped  it  around  the  chest,  and  at  the 
other  end,  inserting  a  long  oar,  he  arranged  for  all  of 
them  to  pull  together. 

The  chest  responded  to  their  united  efforts,  and 


■-— 


A  CAllGO  FOR  THE  BOAT 


215 


go.  No 
link  you 
."     And 

1  him  as 
came  to 

minute." 

le  of  tlio 
you  two 

3U  ought 

is  paddle 
1  view  by 

istakc  in 
i  I  think 
rom  him. 
inish  our 
id  I  don't 
to  make 

aking  the 

1  made  it 

ind  at  the 

for  all  of 

Torts,  and 


soon  they  had  it  ont  upon  the  ground.  It  did  not 
tike  long  to  get  it  on  board  Uic  boat,  but  a  careful 
examination  showed  them  how  hopeless  was  the  task 
of  opening  it  without  the  proper  tools. 

Most  of  the  party  were  now  eager  to  depart.  Iho 
boat  was  well,  though  not  heavily  loaded,  rd  they 
be.'an  to  fear  th  .t  they  might  be  intcrrupto*  u  their 
labors.  They  did  not  know  the  exact  condition  of 
affairs    along   the    river,   and    they    were   afraid    of 

trouble.  .  .    ^    -i 

But  the  cook  insisted  upon  another  visit  to  the  cave. 
» I  know,  I  know  all  about  it.  You  did  the  best  ye 
could,  but  after  all  you  know  you  arc  only  lubbers,  — 
iust  landlubbers  or  sailors  on  this  'ere  fresh-water 
pond  I  know  I  could  find  something  else  in  the  cave. 
Sure,  but  I  'd  like  to  try  it.  Come  on,  and  make  one 
more  trip,  and  then  we  '11  start." 

The  boys  all  looked  at  the  hermit.  What  should 
they  do  ?  They  all  felt  there  was  an  added  risk 
in  remaining  longer,  and  yet  the  possibility  of  any- 
thin-  of  value  being  left  in  the  cave  troubled  them. 
They  had  caught  a  little  of  the  fever  of  winning  prize 
money,  and  a  trip  to  the  cavo  would  only  take  a  few 

minutes.  -j  1.1     , 

Finally  the  hermit  nodded  his  head,  and  said  they 
would  go,  only  he  preferred  that  Andrew  shoud 
be  left  to  guard  the  boat.  He  winked  at  Andrew  as 
he  said,  "Henry  hasn't  been  into  the  cave  much. 


216 


THE  SEAUCII   FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 


lie 's  got  pretty  sharp  eyes,  and  it 's  only  fair  that  he 
should  go  in  part  of  the  time." 

Andrew  very  readily  consented,  and  took  liis  station 
as  guard  as  the  party  entered  the  gorge,  and  soon 
disappeared  from  view.  They  wasted  no  time  in  con- 
versation but  almost  ran  in  their  eagerness  to  reach 
the  cave,  and  give  it  the  final  investigation,  prepara- 
tory to  their  departure.  Henry,  who  had  made  fewer 
trips  than  the  others,  was  the  most  eager  of  all,  and 
kept  a  little  in  advance  of  the  rest. 

They  very  soon  reached  their  destination  and  were 
just  preparing  to  enter,  when  the  hermit  suddenly 
stopped,  and  exclaimed,  "  What 's  that  ?  "  They  all 
stopped  to  listen. 

The  echoes  of  a  gun-shot  were  80.in>l  •■  through  the 
gorge.  As  they  looked  at  one  anc  li  ■  i  consternar 
tion,  suddenly  the  shrill  sound  of  n  whistle  three 
times  repeated  came  to  their  ears. 

"That's  Andrew,"  said  David.  "He's  shot  the 
gun,  and  run  in  after  us  a  little  ways  to  give  us  the 
whistle.  He  must  have  seen  something.  That 's  his 
warning." 

The  hermit  had  already  started  on  the  run  to  go 
back,  and  he  called  out,  "  Come  on,  boys,  we  've  no 
time  to  lose,"  and  the  entire  party,  as  fast  as  they 
could,  followed  him. 


-ammMtmrnm 


Iiat  he 

station 
1  soon 
in  con- 
reach 
•epara- 
fewer 
II,  and 

i  were 
ddcnly 
ley  all 

gh  the 

rterna- 

three 

ot  the 

us  the 

's  his 

to  go 
*ve  no 
B  they 


A  NIGHT  SAIL  AMONG   THE  ISLANDS 


217 


CHAPTER  XXV 

A   NIGHT   SAIL  AMONG   THE  ISLANDS 

WHEN  Andrew  had  been  left  to  guard  the  boat, 
he  at  first  had  taken  a  seat  upon  the  bank 
near  by.  He  was  extremely  anxious,  and  had  not 
favored  this  last  visit  to  the  cave.  But  his  friendship 
for  the  cook,  and  his  remembrance  of  the  kindness  he 
had  received  at  his  hands,  had  caused  him  to  keep 
silence.  But  now  that  the  boat  was  well  loaded,  and 
the  chest  had  been  placed  on  board  safely,  he  wanted 
to  set  sail  at  once. 

He  had  been  but  a  minute  upon  the  bank,  when 
he  rose  and  began  to  walk  back  and  forth  along  the 
beach.  Not  a  sight  or  sound  out  of  the  usual  course 
came  to  him,  but  he  was  still  very  nervous. 

u  ^}.,r  could  n't  they  be  satisfied  to  let  well  enough 
alone  ?  We  've  got  a  good  load  now,  and  more  than 
enough  to  keep  us  from  sailing  very  fast.  I  wish  we 
had  started,  for  it 's  getting  late,"  He  glanced  at  the 
sun,  which  was  now  low  in  the  west.  "  It  '11  be  dark 
before  we  know  it,"  he  added,  impatiently.    - 

He  turned  and  walked  up  the  little  knoll  on  which 
their  prisoner  had  been  standing  when  he  was  taken. 
"  Perhaps  there 's  a  better  view  up  there,"  he  said  to 


218  THE  SEARCH  FOU  ANDREW  FIELD 

himsilf.  It  was  but  a  little  climb,  and  when  he  stood 
there  he  felt  amply  repaid  for  his  change  of  location. 
Tlie  islands  lay  thick  around  him,  and  yet  there  was 
a  long  view  of  the  river  as  he  looked  down  the  stream. 
« 1  believe  I  can  see  (ivo  miles  straight  down  stream," 
he  said.  "  Wiiat  u  giand  river  it  is.  There 's  a  pretty 
strong  current  down  there  I  guess  from  the  looks  of 
things.  But  1  wish  I  was  at  home.  I  *d  like  to  know 
how  father  is,"  and  his  impatience  redoubled. 

Suddenly  he  stopped  as  he  was  looking  away  down 
the  river.  "What's  that  little  white  spot?  Docs  it 
move  ?  I  believe  upon  my  life  it 's  a  sail,"  and  he 
scanned  the  whole  scene  with  the  utmost  care. 

It  certainly  moved.  He  waited  for  a  minute  to 
confirm  his  impression,  and  to  be  sure  that  he  was 
right,  then  he  seized  his  gun,  and,  rushing  into  the 
gorge,  discharged  it.  Not  quite  satisfied  with  this, 
he  ran  in  for  a  short  distance,  and  whistled  shrilly 
through  his  fingers. 

His  summons  as  we  know  was  heard  by  the  explor- 
ing party,  and  in  a  very  short  time  they  were,  with  the 
exception  of  the  cook,  standing  by  Andrew's  side,  and 
gazing  earnestly  in  the  direction  he  pointed. 

One  glance  was  enough  for  the  hermit,  who  called 
out,  « It 's  a  sailboat,  sure.  1  don't  know  as  it 's  any 
one  to  bother  us,  but  we  must  n't  wait  to  see.  You 
stay  here  and  help  the  cook  out,"  he  said  to  Elijah, 
"  and  the  rest  of  us  will  go  down  and  get  the  boat 
ready  to  start  right  away." 


'ailin!ijmn*itau^m'f^'*«^^»'- 


M^ii^:^n>m^*jt*^itmmmmmiu,mmmn»nimi 


he  stood 

location. 

icre  was 

stream. 

stream," 

I  a  pretty 

looks  of 

to  know 

ay  down 

Docs  it 

"  and  he 

8. 

linutc  to 
t  he  was 
into  the 
vith  this, 
id  shrilly 

lie  explor- 
I,  with  the 
I  side,  and 

vho  called 
3  it 's  any 
see.  You 
to  Elijah, 
b  the  boat 


A  MUllT  SAIL  AMONG  THE  ISLANDS  219 

Elijah  remained  to  help  the  cook,  who  soon  camo, 
pulling  and  very  red  in  the  face,  up  to  whore  he  stood. 
A  hearty  pull  placed  him  on  the  ground. 

"What 's  in  the  wind?"  said  he,  wiping  his  stream- 
ing forehead. 

"0,  there's  a  boat  coming,  that's  all,"  replied 
Elijah  dryly.  "We  sha'n't  stay  to  celebrate  the 
declaration  of  war.  Come  on,"  he  called  out,  as 
he  ran  for  the  shore.  The  cook  followed  as  rapidly  . 
as  he  was  able,  and  the  party,  which  had  been  impa- 
tiently awaiting  their  arrival,  at  once  set  sail. 

The  hermit  soon  steered  the  boat  among  the  islands, 
so  that  no  view  down  the  river  was  to  be  had.  But  it 
was  more  heavily  laden  than  they  had  supposed,  and 
their  progress  was  slow.  The  boys  were  so  nervous 
and  excited,  that  the  hermit  felt  called  upon  to  try 
ai  d  calm  them. 

«  We  sha'n't  cast  overboard  any  of  our  cargo  just 
yet,"  he  said  quietly.  "  I  don't  believe  that  boat  was 
after  us  anyway.  They  can't  see  us  now,  and  we  '11 
keep  on.  I  'm  not  sure  but  we  'd  better  go  over  to 
Clayton  and  dispose  of  our  cargo.    What  do  you  think, 

Andrew?" 

« How  far  is  it  to  Clayton?"  Andrew  inquired. 

«  Well,  it 's  a  good  ten  mile,  and  out  of  our  course. 
Still  I'd  think  that  was  the  best  plan  if  it  wasn't 
getting  so  late,"  he  said,  as  he  glanced  at  the  sun. 

« I  don't  like  to  put  in  there.     I  'd  like  to  keep 


220 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIKLD 


right  on  home.  Wc  can  get  rid  of  our  stuff  at 
Sackott's  Harbor,  and  I  don't  like  to  stop.  Wo 
sha'n't  have  any  trouble  along  the  lake  shore,  I 
guess,  any  way,"  said  Andrew. 

"  I  'm  not  so  sure  of  that,"  replied  the  hermit. 
"But  Htill  I'm  perfectly  willin'  to  keep  right  on. 
I  want  to  sail  in  the  night  too,  as  well  as  in  the  day. 
You  can't  sleep  in  the  cabin,  'cause  there  is  n't  room 
with  all  the  stuff  we've  got  here.  I'm  goin'  in  a 
new  course,  and  I  don't  want  to  stop  much  if  I  can 
help  it.    At  least  for  this  night,"  he  added. 

*'  We  don't  want  to  stop  cither.  I  'm  afraid  of  that 
boat  we  saw.  I  don't  believe  'twas  on  any  good 
errand,"  said  Andrew. 

«  Well,  I  'm  hungry  now,  and  I  know  there  's  some- 
thin'  to  eat  aboard.  If  the  cook  '11  just  see  to  that 
part  of  it,  I  '11  mind  the  tiller,  for  I  don't  like  to  trust 
her  much  to  any  one  in  the  dark,  and  in  this  new 
channel  too." 

"  Yes,  yes,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  said  the 
cook,  as  he  responded  to  the  hermit's  suggestion  and 
disappeared  belc  jf. 

But  he  soon  returned  with  something  the  boys 
could  eat,  and  soon  they  were  in  better  spirits.  The 
boat  kept  steadily  on,  and  while  the  progress  was  not 
rapid,  still,  as  the  wind  held  good,  they  drew  away 
from  the  familiar  sights  at  a  fair  rate  of  speed. 
"We've  never  been  this  way,  have  we?"  asked 


VJI.^ 


stuff  at 
p.  Wo 
Bhoro,  I 

hermit, 
ight  on. 
the  day. 
n't  room 
ain'  in  a 
if  I  can 

d  of  that 
my  good 

!  's  some- 
e  to  that 
e  to  trust 
this  new 

'  said  the 
stion  and 

the  boys 
•its.  The 
s  was  not 
rew  away 
peed. 
I?"  asked 


A  NIGHT  SAIL  AMONG  THE  ISLANDS  221 

David.    "It's  a  little  dark,  but  it  looks  like  a  new 
course  to  me." 

"  No,  we  've  never  been  this  way,"  replied  the  hermit. 
"  It's  a  little  longer,  and  not  quite  so  safe,  for  there  's 
some  rocks  pretty  near  the  channel  here." 

The  boys  were  silent  for  a  time,  and  no  sound  came 
to  their  ears  but  the  lap  of  the  river  against  the  sides 
of  the  boat  as  they  sailed  on. 

"  I  don't  quite  understand  this  war,  anyway,"  said 
Henry  after  a  time.  "  Is  it  all  just  about  pressing 
men,  as  Andrew  here  was  ? " 

"  I  have  n't  been  where  I  could  follow  it  very  close," 
said  the  hermit;  "but  I  guess  that's  the  prime  thing, 
though.  You  know  that,  while  England  acknowledged 
the  independence  of  the  United  States  after  the  other 
war,  she  never  felt  just  like  giving  up  all  her  claim 
on  us.  Besides,  that  war  did  cost  a  heap,  and  the 
taxes  in  Great  Britain  were  fearful.  Why,  their  debt 
had  increased  from  13,300,000  in  1689  to  $700,000,000 
in  1768.  And  the  spark  that  set  fire  to  the  powder 
magazine  was  because  they  tried  to  let  up  on  their 
own  taxes  by  layin'  it  on  to  the  Colonies.  Then  when 
they  had  all  the  expense  o'  the  war,  and  had  to  give 
up  the  taxes  and  Colonies  too,  why,  it  made  a  bad 
matter  worse." 

"  What  did  the  war  of  the  Revolution  cost  ?    Do 
you  know  ?  "  asked  Andrew. 
"  Not  exactly,"  replied  the  hermit.    "  I  guess  no- 


fF 


M*- 


222  THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDUEW   FIELD 

body  docs.     But  I  hoard  'cm  say  how  it  cost  us  about 
$135,000,000  iu  specie." 

"  1)0  you  kuO^v  wliat  it  cost  the  British  ? "  asked 

David. 

"They  said  (some  o'  our  lucu,  I  mean)  it  cost  the 
Britishers  a  heap  more  'n  tliat.  Leastwise  their  debt 
was  increased  duriu'  the  war  about  $600,000,000." 

"How  many  soldiers  were  there  in  the  British 
army  ?  "  inquired  Elijah. 

"  They  probably  never  had  more  than  forty  thou- 
sand at  any  one  time." 

"  Did  we  have  more'n  that  ?  "  asked  David. 
«No,  we  never  had  more'n  that  in  the  regular 
army.  We  liad  some  minute-men,  who  served  as  I 
did  at  Saratoga  and  Stillwater,  and  then  they'd  go 
home.  They  did  n't  often  count  for  nmch.  Our 
regulars  were  just  about  the  same  as  the  British 

forces." 

«'  How  'd  they  wind  up  that  war,  anyway  ?  "  asked 
Andrew.  "  Did  the  British  just  clear  out  after  Corn- 
wallis  surrendered,  or  what  did  they  do  ? " 

"  0  my  !  no,"  replied  the  hermit.  "  They  cleared 
out  of  Savannali  in  July,  1782.  They  did  n't  leave 
Ciiarleston  till  the  next  December,  and  they  never 
left  New  York  till  the  twenty-fifth  day  of  November, 

1783." 
"Was  New  York  the  last  place  they  left?*' said 

Andrew. 


..^MJ"-.,^-^-^-   --L-      ''       ''    "" 


t  us  about 

11  ?  "  asked 

t  cost  the 
their  debt 
0,000." 
iie   British 

forty  thou- 

:id. 

he  regular 
lervcd  as  I 
they'd  go 
uch.  Our 
the  liritish 

ly  ?  "  asked 
after  Coru- 

hey  cleai'ed 

id  n't  leave 

they  never 

November, 

left?*' said 


A  NKJllT  SAIL  AMONG  TUB  ISLANDS  223 

"  It  was  the  last  on  the  coast,  but  they  held  on  to 
the  forts  north  of  the  Ohio  River  about  a  dozen  years 
longer.  Well,  ye  sec,"  continued  the  hermit,  «  they 
could  n't  quite  give  up  all  the  grip  they  had  all  at 
once.  And  they  've  kept  a  pcstcrin'  us  ever  since.  ^  1 
don't  know  so  very  much  about  that  part,  for  T  vo 
lived  mostly  alone  down  here  on  this  river;  but  I've 
heard  'em  talkin'  about  these  things  when  1  have  met 

JK30ple."  m      •  ff 

» 1  wonder  whatever  became  of  the  Tones  alter 
the  war  closed,"  said  David. 

"0,some  on 'em  settled  down  and  tried  to  make 
the  best  of  it.  But  there  was  a  lot  that  left  with  the 
British  troops.  Some  up  North  went  over  to  Canada 
and  Nova  Scotia,  and  some  down  South  went  to  the 

West  Indies." 

«  Yes,  yes,  I  know,"  interrupted  the  cook.    "  I  were 

there  myself." 

"  Yes,"  said  the  hermit,  "  a  good  many  came  back 
after  a  while,  and  a  good  many  did  n't.  But  I  wish 
none  on  'em  had  come.  1  tell  you,  boys,  don't  you 
ever  go  back  on  your  own  country.  Maybe  you'll 
have  to  light  in  this  war.  if  you  do,  jest  remember 
you're  finishin'  the  other, -kind  o*  clinchin'  the  na.l 
like.  They  've  bothered  our  ships  and  stole  our  men. 
I  tell  you,  after  such  an  experience  as  Andrew's  had, 
a  man,  if  he  does  have  to  fight,  will  want  to  fight 
hard,  and  end  the  whole  thing.     I'm  afraid  we'll 


224  THE  SKAUCU  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 

have  a  touRh  time,  though.  Yo  sec,  it'«  like  orcniu' 
an  old  8orc,  and  it's  been  Boro  all  the  time.  1  don  t 
behove  much  in  fightin'  unlcBS  ye  have  to.  Hut  if  yo 
do  have  to,  why  you  want  to  piteh  in  and  f.ght  bo  you 
won't  have  to  do  it  again  for  a  long  time." 

Andrew  and  the  boys  became  Bilent  and  thoughtful. 
They  were  thinking  of  their  homcB,  and  the  prospect 
that  Bome  of  them  might  have  to  fight  in  a  long  and 
bloody  war  made  them  Bcrious.  They  were  hardy 
boys,  and  no  cowards,  but  they  had  had  enough  expo- 
riencc  to  know  that  war  was  a  terrible  ev.h 

"I'll  never  forget  my  experience  oft  ht.  Kius  m 
the  West  Indies  when  the  Constellation  took  the 
French  frigate  L'InBurgcnto.     Vcb,  yes,  1  know,    said 

the  cook.  ,    ,     tj  A 

«  We  don't.    Tell  us  about  it,"  sa.d  the  tfoys ;  and    • 
the  kind-hearted  cook   repeated   the  story  he  had 
already  told  Andrew,  of  his  former  naval  experiences, 
interjecting  many  a  "Yes,  yc8, 1  know,    among  his 

words 

But  the  night  wore  on.  One  by  one  the  boys 
dropped  off  to  sleep,  each  making  a  pUlow  of  his 
arm,  or  half  reclining  on  the  rude  seat. 

Only  the  hermit,  the  cook,  and  Andrew  remained 
awake,  for  they  were  too  anxions  to  sleep,  thoroughly 
tired  though  they  were. 

«  It'll  be  light  pretty  quick,  1  guess,  said  the  her- 
mit  at  last,  who  had  not  left  the  tiller  during  the 


^ 


1 


A  NIGHT  SAIL  AMONC  TIIK   ISI  VN»S 


225 


0  ofcnm 

,  1  don't 
Hut  if  yo 
[ht  BO  you 

lioughttul. 
3  prospect 

1  long  and 
ci-o  hardy 
ough  expo- 

t.  Kitt's  in 
1  took  the 
;now,"  said 

Mbys;  and 
ry  he  had 
sxperiences, 

among  his 


,^i...ht.  -  I  don't  j.iHt  know  wl.oiT  wc  arc,  but  wo  '11 
Boon  be  out  ..I-  the  islands.  When  it's  light,  1  11 
know  just  where  I  am." 

II,,  had  hardly  uttered  the  wonls,  when,  with  a 
Hharp  sound  the  boat,  running  in  nca-  shore,  struck. 
The  shock  awakened  every  one,  a.ul  in  a  moment 
they  were  over  the  side  trying  to  shove  her  ofl  for 
«he  was  in  shallow  water.     But  their  united  ellorts 

failed  to  move  her. 

-What '11  we  do?"  said  Andrew.  "She  s  fast 
aground.  I  'm  afraid  we  'U  have  to  take  some  of  her 
cargo  out  befo.c  we  get  her  off." 

"Guess  wc  won't  have  time,"  said  the  hermit, 
quietly,  as  he  pointed  over  toward  the  east,  where 
they  saN^  a  boat  about  the  size  of  theirs  coming 
toward  tlUm  under  full  sail. 


e  the  boys 
How  of  his 

w  remained 
,  thoroughly 


?aia  the  her- 
•  during  the 


226 


THE  8KAIICII   FOR   ANDHKW   FIKLD 


CIIAI'TEU    XXVI 


i 


AN   INTKHMIHSION 

THE  hermit,  in  a  low  voice,  gave  directions  tliiit 
everything  in  the  hoat  k1iou1»1  be  covered,  and 
then  that  tliey  were  to  wait  for  the  other  boat  to 
conic  nearer,  and  no  one  was  to  speak,  save  himself, 
unless  he  was  directly  Hi>ol<en  to. 

The  men  in  the  other  boat  had  sighted  them,  and 
changed  their  course  so  as  to  come  nearer.  When 
they  had  run  close  in,  it  was  seen  that  they  were  a 
party  of  seven  men;  but,  as  they  wore  no  uniforms, 
it  was  inii)088ible  to  determine  to  which  side  of  tlic 
river  they  belonged. 

''Hello,  boys!  got  aground  r "  one  of  them  called 
out,  as  they  came  up. 

"  Yes,"  said  the  liermit.  "  Wc  're  fast  aground  on 
a  rock." 

"You  ought  not  to  have  been  out  sailing  so  early 
in  the  morning.  Could  n't  see  to  steer  your  course," 
laughed  one  of  the  men. 

"Well,  you  seem  to  have  had  better  luck  than  M'e 
did,  if  you  don't  believe  in  sailing  so  early  in  the 
morning,"  said  the  hermit,  in  reply. 


vJii4, 


!:li) 


•ectioiiH  that 
i-ovori'd,  and 
tlirr  l»oai  to 
ave  hiiuHcIf, 

d  them,  and 
ircr.  When 
tliey  were  a 
no  unifoniiB, 
1  sidf  of  the 

them  culled 

it  aground  on 

ling  so  early 
pur  course," 

hick  than  we 
early  in  the 


AN   INTKUMISSION 


'227 


Tlio  man  laughed  again,  and  then  said,  "  Where 'd 
ye  conu!  from  V  " 

"O,  from  down  the  river.  I  hail  l)ad  luck;  Homo- 
body  set  lire  to  my  house,  and  1  'vo  had  to  move. 
These  boys  were  with  me." 

"Well,  did  ye  see  any  other  men  down  below?" 
inquired  the  spc;  kcr. 

"Yes,"  said  V,\(*  hermit  (juiekly,  "there  were  a 
lot  of  'em  df  .vn  on  one  of  the  islands.  (Juess  they  'd 
got  somctli'itg  there  they  were  afraid  would  get 
owny.  I  ♦hink  they  were  the  ones  thiit  set  my  house 
afire.  They  did  j  r,  w^ariL  any  nigh  neighbors,  I 
giiesH,"  said  the  ^  L'iiiit. 

The  men  sj)okw  quickly  '  -gethcr,  and  then  the  one 
who  bef  Jie  i  ad  been  the  «i  >!.esman,  eagerly  inquired, 
"In  wl  at  direction  from  here  ar«  they?  Can  you 
show  us  the  way  ? " 

The  hermit  indicated  with  his  head  the  direction 
in  which  the  others  were,  and  then  said,  as  the 
])arty  v  i*  preparing  to  leave,  "I  wish  you'd  take 
hold  and  help  us  off  here.  Give  us  a  tow  before 
you  go." 

The  men  laughed  good-naturedly  and  said,  "  We  '11 
throw  you  a  rope ;  wc  '11  haul,  as  you  push.  But 
be  quick  about  it,  for  we  must  be  off." 

The  combined  efforts  seemed  to  be  enough,  and 
they  drew  the  boat  back  from  the  rock  on  which  she 
had  struck.     Fortunately,  the  wind  had  been  light 


228  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   Fn:LD 

at  the  time,  so  that  the  hard  pull  was  all  that  was 
needed  to  get  her  off.  As  soon  as  she  was  free  the 
other  party,  with  a  hastily  spol^cn  farewell,  set  sail, 
and  were  soon  lost  to  view. 

"That's  what  I  eall  a  close  shave,"  said  the  her- 
mit. "I  think  those  men  were  Canadian  officers. 
They  're  after  the  smugglers,  and  when  they  saw  we 
didn't  fit  the  description  of  'em  they  had,  they  never 
thought  of  making  investigations  here.  I  hope  the 
smugglers '11  think  it's  our  party  when  they  meet 
'cm.      I   wouldn't  mind    bein'   there  to  see   that 

meet. " 

"That's  just  about  the  way  Mad  Anthony  Wayne 
did  at  Stony  Point,"  said  the  cook.     "He  crept  up 
and  took  the  fort  with  his  men  in  the  night,  and  the 
British  gunboats  did  n't  know  anything  about  it  till 
morning  came,  and  he  turned  those  guns  right  on  to 
the  boats  in  the  river.     1  tell  you  there  was  a  scur- 
ryin'  there  then.     I  guess  they  thought  the  people 
up  in  the  fort  had  gone  mad,  seein'  as  they  didn't 
know  anything  about  the  fort's  bein'  taken.    So  these 
smuoglers'll  think  it's  a  funny  piece  of  business  if 
they°'re   chasing  us  and   find  a  boat  coming  right 
from  our  direction  alter  them.     I  guess  they  '11  be 

surprised." 

"  Well,  I  hope  they  '11  have  a  good  time  at  the  sur- 
prise party,"  said  Elijah,  with  a  laugh.  "  1  'd  like  to 
go  to  one  first  rate.     Do  you  remember  that  one  we 


AN  INTEUMISSION 


229 


that  \v'.8 
free  the 
set  sail, 

the  hcr- 
1  officers, 
y  saw  we 
hey  never 
hope  the 
ihey  meet 

see   that 

iiy  Wayne 
crept  up 
t,  and  the 
»out  it  till 
ight  on  to 
as  a  scur- 
the  people 
ley  did  n't 
So  these 
business  if 
ling  right 
they  '11  be 

at  the  sur- 
I  'd  like  to 
hat  one  we 


had  at  your  house  last  spring,  David  ?    Those  Potter 
girls  were  there,  wasn't  they,  Andrew  ?  " 

"I  «ruc8S  so,  "  said  Andrew.  "But  the  question 
is,  where  are  we?  We  may  get  another  surprise 
party  down  here  before  we  know  it.  Wlint  's  to  be 
done  now  ?  "  said  he,  turning  to  the  hermit. 

"I  think  we'd  better  run  in  among  these  islands 
somewhere,  and  lay  by  for  a  while.  Not  just  here. 
Ye  see  we  don't  want  to  be  seen  much,  and  we  need 
a  little  rest.  So  I  think  we  '11  stop  for  a  little  any- 
way, and  towards  night  we  '11  start  on  again.  When 
we  get  out  into  the  lake,  then  we  '11  go  day  and 
night  till  we  get  you  and  our  cargo  safely  landed. 
But  we  've  got  to  be  careful. " 

The  plan  was  approved  by  all,  and,  going  directly 
out  of  their  course  about  half  a.  mile,  they  landed. 
The  first  thing  they  did  was  to  give  the  boat's  keel 
a  very  careful  examination.  No  damage  had  been 
done,  they  found,  as  the  rock  on  -.vhich  she  had  struck 
was  fortunately  a  flat  one. 

They  were  in  a  little  cove  that  gave  sufficient 
depth  of  water  for  the  boat,  and  yst  was  sheltered 
from  the  sight  of  any  who  might  be  passing.  There 
was  a  little  debate  at  first  as  to  whether  any  fire 
should  be  kindled  or  not,  for  fear  the  smoke  would 
reveal  them,  but  it  was  decided  to  have  a  small 
fire,  and  then  to  put  it  out  as  soon  as  the  breakfeast 
was  cooked. 


im 


mxmmmmmKO^ 


230 


THE  SEARCH  FOU  ANDREW  Fn<:LO 


The  hermit  had  phiced  on  board  his  entire  supply 
of  pork  in  a  barrel  of  brine  before  they  had  started 
on  their  previous  trip  for  Kinj^ston.  Some  of  this 
was  still  left,  and  of  it,  with  some  corn  bread  and 
fish  which  Ilcnry  caught,  and  some  berries  that 
David  and  Elijah  picked,  they  made  their  breakfast. 
They  were  all  in  fairly  good  spirits,  and  in  high 
hopes  that  they  would  be  able  to  continue  their 
journey  without  further  interruptions. 

It  was  decided  that  a  guard  should  be  kept,  and 
Andrew  was  chosen  to  stand  first.  All  the  rest  of 
the  party  spread  their  blankets  on  the  ground,  and, 
stretching  themselves  upon  them,  were  soon  asleep. 

Andrew,  in  spite  of  his  weariness,  was  very  watch- 
ful. He  was  not  satisfied  to  remain  awake  merely, 
but  he  went  out  on  the  points  alternately  and  scanned 
the  river  carefully  in  every  direction. 

The  sun  climbed  high,  and  noon  arrived.  This 
was  the  time  agreed  upon  when  he  was  to  call  the 
others,  and  after  they  had  had  their  dinner  he  was 
to  be  relieved,  and  he  was  then  to  turn  in  for  his 
nap. 

Before  he  roused  the  others,  however,  he  kindled 
a  fire  and  made  all  things  ready  for  dinner.  It  was 
only  when  this  had  been  done  that  he  roused  the 
sleepers,  and  they  all  came  at  his  call. 

Andrew  was  thoroughly  worn  out,  and  after  he 
had  eaten  a  little,  he  took  his  blanket,  and,  going  off 


IBif 'f-TWft'f*- 


AN  INTERMISSION 


2:u 


by  himself,  was  soon  asleep.  The  heririlt  had  insisted 
upon  standin<?  guard  himself  during  the  afternoon, 
))ut  the  exciting  scenes  through  which  they  had 
lately  passed,  and  the  rest  which  they  had  had  in  the 
morning,  caused  the  boys  to  remain  for  a  time  after 
they  had  finished  their  meal. 

"I  guess  we  're  in  about  as  tight  a  box  as  lots  of 
the  men  were  in  the  war  you  were  telling  about," 
said  David  to  the  hermit- 

The  hermit  smiled  and  said,  "There  were  some 
pretty  tight  squeezes  fer  our  men  in  those  days.  I 
saw  a  man  who  was  at  New  London  when  Arnold, 
the  old  traitor,  went  there  with  his  British  fleet." 

"  How  was  that? "  asked  David. 

"  Well,  you  see,  the  New  London  people  fer  a  long 
time  were  afraid  they  were  goin'  to  be  attacked,  I 
guess  maybe  they  got  a  little  careless  after  a  while. 
Ye  see,  there  was  two  forts  at  New  London,  one  on 
each  side  o'  the  harbor;  one  of  'era  was  Fort  Gris- 
wold  and  the  other  Fort  Trumbull.  Well,  one 
mornin'  when  the  New  London  folks  waked  up,  there 
was  a  great  fleet  just  bearin'  right  down  upon  the 
town.  It  had  been  agreed  that  Fort  Griswold  should 
fire  two  guns  whenever  there  was  an  alarm.  Well, 
when  they  saw  the  fleet  they  fired  the  two  guns,  as 
they  had  agreed  to  d'»,  and  then  right  away  the 
British  boats  fired  three,  which  was  the  signal  the 
Americans  arranged  when  a  victory  had  been  gained. 


232  THE  SEARCH  FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 

Ye  see  some  one  had  told  'em  the  sisrnals  that  had 
been  fixed  upon.  The  country  folks  didn't  know 
what  to  make  of  such  firin'  as  that.  Well,  the 
New  London  folks  was  scared  to  see  a  great  tleet 
right  in  upon  'em  before  breakfast.  The  women  and 
children  was  runnin'  cryin'  through  the  streets,  and 
out  into  the  country.  'T  was  a  good  thing  they  did, 
for  the  British  jest  set  fire  to  the  town,  and  burned 
it  all  pretty  much."  ^ 

"Was   that  the  tight  place  you  meant?      said 

Elijah. 

"  Not  exactly, "  replied  the  hermit.     "  Ye  see  Fort 
Trumbull  wasn't  much  of  a  fort;  'twas  just  a  bat- 
tery facin'  the  water  on  three  sides,  and  open  behind. 
Cap'n  Shapley  had  just  twenty-three  men  and  eight 
guns,    and  two   o'   the  guns  was   no   good.     Well, 
when  Cap'n  Shapley  saw  the  Britishers  a  comin',  he 
just  loaded  the  cannon,  six  on  'em,  with  grape,  and 
told  his  men  to  be  ready  to  spike  the  guns.     He  let 
'era  have  the  grape,  and  then  yelled,  'Drive  in  the 
spikes,'  and  then  they  all  ran  down  to  their  boats  and 
started  to  row  across  the  river  to  Port  Griawold.  ' 
"  Did  they  get  over  there  ?  "  asked  Elijah,  excitedly. 
"Well,  seven  on  'era  didn't;  they  was  wounded 

and  taken."  , 

"Did  Arnold  make  any  attack  on  Fort  Griswold  / 

asked  David.  ,  ■ 

"Yes;  and  the  worst  of  it  was  that  wich  the 


I 


laai'iaifiri'inMniA 


AN  INTERMISSION 


233 


British  there  was  a  battalion  of  Tories,  from  New 
Jersey,  too.     The  British  Colonel's  name  was  Eyre, 
and  he  sent  a  white  flag  up  to  the  fort  and  told  'em 
to  surrender.     The  American   Colonel's  name  was 
Ledyard,  —  there  's  lots  of  folks  by  that  name  there 
yet,  —and  he  tallied  it  over  with  his  cai)tain8,  and 
they  said  they  'd  stay  by  the  fort.     Well,  they  had 
an  awful  fight.     There  was  lota  more  of  the  British 
than  of  the  Americans.     They  made  lots  o'  rushes, 
and  could  n't  get  in  for  a  long  time ;  but  there  was 
so  many  of  'em  they  just  could  keep  supply  in'  men 
for  them  that  was  shot  down,  ye  see.     And  after 
a  while  they  forced  their  way  in.     Colonel  Ledyard 
saw  the  end  was  comin',  and  he  ordered  his  men  to 
stop  firin'.    But  the  British  just  took  a  nine-pounder 
and  shot  grape  into  that  little  huddle  o'  men  that 
was  left  after  they  had  surrendered.     Colonel  Eyre 
and  one  major  had   been  killed,    and   then   Major 
Bromfield  was  in  command  o'  the  British.     He  see 
they  had  stopped  firin',  and  he  rushes  in  and  yells, 
'  Who  '8  in  command  o'  this  fort  ?  '     '1  was,  but  you 
are  now,'  said   Colonel   Ledyard,  handing  him  his 
sword.      Well,   that  rascally  Britisher  drew  back 
that  sword  right  there  and  then,  and  run  it  into 
Ledyard's  body  up  to  the  hilt." 

The  boys'  eyes  flashed.     "  What  did  the  men  do 
then  ?  "  they  asked.  ' 

«  Why,  nothin'.   They  had  surrendered,  and  before 


234 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


they  knew  it  tlic  British  and  the  Tories  were  firin' 
right  into  'cm  there  in  the  fort." 

"What,  after  tliey  '  daurrendered  ?  "  aske*!  Elijah. 

"Yes,  after  they'd  surrendered.  Hardly  any  es- 
caped. A  few  jumped  over  the  walls,  and  managed 
to  get  away. " 

"What  did  they  do  with  that  major?"     asked 

David. 

"Promoted  him,  on  Sir  Henry  Clinton's  recom- 
mendation,"  replied  the  hermit,  rising  and  walking 
towards  the  shore.  The  boys  thoughtfully  took  their 
blankets  and  went  to  join  Andrew,  who  lay  fast 
asleep  under  the  trees. 


■^ 


c  firln' 

Elijah. 
!iny  «'»' 
lanagod 

asked 

recom- 
i^alking 
ok  their 
lay  fast 


%«, 


A  CHANGE  IN   THE  COLUSE 


235 


CHAPTER  XXVII 


A    CHAN(JK   IN   THE    COURSE 


'T^IIE  hermit  let  the  entire  party  sleep  until  the 
■^  middle  of  the  afternoon.  But  about  three 
o'clock  he  roused  them  all,  and  called  a  council. 
The  boys  declared  themselves  to  be  thoroughly  rested, 
and  ready  for  any  work  that  might  be  before  them. 

"I  've  been  a  thinkin'  of  our  boat,"  said  the  her- 
mit. "  Ye  see  she  's  pretty  well  loaded.  It  keeps 
her  from  sailin'  very  fast,  specially  when  there  's  six 
of  us  besides  the  load. " 

"  What  do  you  think  can  be  done  ?  "  said  Andrew. 
"  We  don't  want  to  throw  overboard  any  of  our  cargo 
unless  we  have  to.  We  've  worked  so  hard  to  get  it, 
we  don't  want  to  lose  it  now  if  we  can  help  it." 

"No  more  do  I  want  to  lose  it,"  said  the  hermit. 
"I  don't  care  so  much  about  the  prize  money  as 
you  youngsters  do,  I  suppose,  but  I  don't  want  those 
rascally  smugglers  to  get  it  again  either.  Ye  see," 
he  added,  "  I  suppose  we  're  all  in  the  Canada  waters 
yet,  though  I  'm  not  sure  o'  that.  But  I  suspect  those 
men  we  saw  were  Canadians." 

"  Well,  what  can  we  do,  then  ? "  inquired  Andrew. 


'9-:r 


230 


TlIK  SKAHCII   FOK  ANDUKW   FIKLl) 


"  I  don't  8oe  any  way  out  of  it,  except  to  take  our 
chances.  Maybe  we  slm'n't  meet  any  more  men. 
Who  knowB  ?  " 

"  But  1  want  the  boat  to  sail  right  whether  we  meet 
'em  or  not,"  replied  the  hermit.  "I  don't  want  'cm 
to  catch  us  if  we  do  meet  'cm.  Now  I  think  it  'd 
be  a  miglity  good  ]tlan  to  fix  that  load  so  that  we 
can  throw  out  the  ballast.  1  believe  if  wc  could  take 
out'those  rocks,  and  there  'a  a  lot  of  'em  we  've  got 
in  there  for  ballast,  we  could  fix  our  cargo  so  that 
we  could  sail  a  good  deal  faster  than  we  can  now. " 

"That's  the  very  thing!"  exclaimed  Andrew,  and 
he  led  the  way  to  the  boat,  and  they  all  began  at 
once  to  re;,  range  the  cargo. 

It  was  no  light  task  the  boys  had  before  them. 
The  cook  was  placed  on  guard,  and  the  remainder 
of  the  party  worked  hard  under  the  direction  of  the 
hermit. 

"I  don't  think  the  cook  ought  to  be  singing,  do 
you  ?  "  asked  Andrew  of  the  hermit,  n  a  the  words  of 
a  sailor's  song  came  to  them  from  the  guard.  "I 
suppose  he 's  happy,  but  other  men  may  stop  to  hear 
the  music. " 

"No,  you  'd  better  go  up  and  tell  him  to  stop  it," 
replied  the  hermit. 

Andrew  went  to  where  the  cook  was  stumping  back 
and  forth  along  the  shore,  and  singing  at  the  top  of 
his  voice. 


V^ 


.^y 


A  CHANGE  IN   THE  COURSE 


237 


"Yes,  yea,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,"  rcj  licil  the 
cook,  when  Andrew  cautioned  him  to  be  silent. 

Andrew  returned  to  the  boat,  and  the  singing 
ceased.  "We  sha'n't  t.et  this  done  before  five 
o'clock,"  said  he,  as  ho  began  to  work  again. 

"That's  as  early  as  we  ought  to  start,"  said  the 
hermit.  "  But  when  wo  do  start,  I  think  wo  'II  find 
a  big  difference  in  the  time  we  make." 

"Where  do  you  think  this  war's  likely  to7bo 
fought  ?  Down  around  New  York,  I  presume,  is  n't 
it  ?  "  inquired  David. 

"I  don't  think  ao,"  said  the  hermit.  "I  think  a 
good  deal  of  it  will  be  along  this  Canadian  line. 
Then  I  think  there  's  likely  to  be  a  good  many  sea 
lights,  too." 

"  But  we  have  n't  any  navy,"  said  David.  "Did  n't 
Mr.  Reese  say  we  only  had  a  dozen  boats  in  the  whole 
country  ?  " 

"Yes,  but  you  '11  see  how  soon  they  '11  be  made, 
though.  I  reckon  you  '11  see  some  of  it  around 
Sackett's  Harbor.  Probably  Dearborn  will  have 
command  o'  this  end." 

"  Well,  if  we  can  only  get  home,  I  don't  care  if 
we  do  see  some  of  it,"  said  Elijah. 

The  hermit  only  smiled.  "  Out  in  Michigan  Terri- 
tory there  's  a  place  they  call  Detroit.  That 's  a  kind 
of  a  key,  you  know.  I  guess  they  '11  see  a  little 
blood  spilled  out  there.      Probably  Hull  will  have 


238 


TIIK  SKAHCII   FOR   ANDREW   FIEM) 


coiniiiand  al  tliiit  end.  If  I  wuh  n't  ho  old,  T  think 
1  'd  hiivo  a  hand  in  it,  soincwhcres.  Hut  tlirn  I  ain't 
80  old  but  I  can  Ijt-at  yuu  Ijovh  now  in  lifting,"  he 
Buid,  as  ho  gave  the  heavy  chest  a  pull,  and  put  it 
into  ])08ition. 

By  five  o'clock  they  were  ready  to  start.  They 
returned  to  the  camp.  Henry  relieved  the  cook,  and 
the  latter  began  at  once  to  prepare  something  for 
them  to  cat  before  they  sailed. 

"Ye  see,"  he  said,  "we  may  be  so  busy  aftrr  we 
weigh  anchor  that  we  won't  think  o'  eatin'.  O, 
I  know,  1  know  all  about  it." 

His  plan  was  approved,  and  in  a  short  time  he  had 
their  meal  ready  for  them. 

"What  '11  we  do  if  wo  find  somebody  after  us  when 
we  start  ?  "  asked  David.  "  I  hope  we  slia'n't  sec 
anybody,  Canadians  or  smugglers  either." 

"We  '11  do  the  best  we  can.  Our  skins  are  worth 
more  to  us  than  this  stuff  here,  —  yes,  more  'n  the 
boat  too,"  replied  the  hermit,  "It  may  be  that 
we  '11  have  to  leave  that  and  take  our  chances  on 
land." 

"We  won't  till  we  have  to,"  said  Andrew,  decid- 
edlv.  "We  have  n't  come  as  far  as  this,  and  done 
all  this  work,  to  give  it  up  without  a  fight." 

"I  don't  much  want  to  fight,  specially  with  these 
boys  aboard,"  said  the  hermit.  "  But  we  won't  cross 
any  bridges  afore  we  come  to  'cm." 


■'-T' 


A  (JllANdK  IN  THE  C0UU8E 


239 


th  these 
a't  cross 


In  nbont  a  half-hour  they  set  «ail.  The  iiid 
threatened  to  die  <h)wn  as  Biinset  (h-ew  near,  hut  they 
made  Home  projrress,  though  it  waH  slow.  The  i)oy8 
fjrrcw  impatient,  and  Elijah  finally  said,  as  he  saw 
the  sail  flapping'  a  little,  and  how  slow  their  progress 
was,   "Don't  you  think  we'd  better  row,   some  of 

us  ? " 

"No,"  replied  the  hermit.  "It'll  make  a  noi;  o, 
and  besides  1  want  to  save  our  strength.  \Vc  may 
have  to  row  hard  by  and  l)y." 

The  breeze  soon  freshened  a  liltl''  but  the  boat 
still  made  very  slow  headway.  They  had  not  covered 
more  than  two  miles  since  they  had  left  their  last 
camping-ground,  and  two  hours  had  almost  gone. 
Andrew  and  the  cook  were  in  tlie  bow,  keeping  a 
very  careful  lookout  ahead,  and  the  hermit,  though 
lie  was  steering  the  boat,  kept  a  lookout  on  every 
side.     The  party  was  silent  and  anxious, 

"Andrew,"  called  the  hermit,  "what's  that  white 
spot  ahead  there  up  beyond  that  island   on  your 

right  ? " 

Andrew  and  the  cook  looked  where  the  hermit 
indicated,  and  called  out  in  a  moment,  "It  looks 
like  a  sail.  Yes,  T  believe  it  is  a  boat,"  Andrew 
added,  after  a  careful  scrutiny. 

At  once  there  was  excitement  on  board.  The  faces 
of  the  younger  boys  became  pale,  but  none  of  thein 
uttered  a  word. 


240 


rriK   8RAKCII  FOIl  ANDREW  FIKLI) 


The  silence  wrb  broken  by  the  hermit.  "There  'g 
no  help  for  it,  boys.  Wo  'vo  got  to  go  back.  1  Ml 
run  behind  the  i»lan(l,  and  then  I'll  go  back  a  milo 
or  HO  and  cross  over  farther  to  tht;  west.  I  guess 
we  Ml  have  to  put  in  there  for  a  while.  That  boat 
ahead  may  be  all  right,  but  1  'm  too  bashful  to  meet 
strangers  right  here." 

Accordingly,  the  hermit  changed  the  boat's  course, 
and  as  the  wind  threatened  to  die  out  entirely,  ho 
called  out  to  the  boys,  "I  guess  ye  can  take  those 
oars  now.  There  's  four  on  'em,  and  a  little  rowiu' 
nuiy  help  us  on.     1  know  where  I  '11  go." 

The  boys  took  the  oars,  and  the  added  impetus 
they  gave,  and  the  fact  that  now  the  current  was 
with  thorn,  sent  them  on  at  a  more  rapid  rate.  The 
JHland  soon  hid  the  sail  from  their  view. 

"  I  wisli  wo  could  have  cut  around  by  some  of  those 
other  islands,"  said  Andrew.  "I  don't  like  a  bit  to 
go  l)ackward8. " 

The  hermit  smiled  as  he  said,  "When  you  'vo  had 
a  little  more  experience  you  '11  be  glad  to  do  most 
anything  to  keep  from  meetin'  a  boat  full  o'  men. 
That  boat  may  be  all  right,  but  I  don't  want  to  take 
any  chances." 

The  party  continued  silent,  and  for  an  hour  the 
hermit  kept  on,  the  boat  being  headed  duo  west. 
The  boys  rowed  steadily,  and  yet  their  progress 
was  slow,  too  slow  to  suit  their  impatience. 


-T 


'Then- '8 
ck.  1  Ml 
:;k  a  inilo 
I  guess 
'hat  boat 
1  to  meet 

's  courso, 
;irely,  ho 
ike  those 
le  rowiu' 

inipetiiH 
rent  was 
ito.     The 

e  of  those 
M  a  bit  to 

•u  've  had 

0  do  most 

1  o'  men. 
nt  to  take 

hour  the 

luc   west. 

progress 


A  CHANr.K  IN  THE  fOL'USK 


241 


It  was  alniimt  dark  when  tlio  hermit  finally  waid, 
"I  jincss  we  've  vroiic  fur  t'lutugh  now.  I  know  this 
iHland,  and  rij?hr,  ahead  there  's  a  cove,  soniolhin'  liko 
the  one  we  was  in  this  inornin'.  There  's  hii^h 
trees  rij^lit  down  l»y  the  banks,  and  if  we  run  her  in 
there,  and  take  down  the  sail,  and  can  keep  quiet,  I 
don't  think  any  boat  in  Christendom  cotild  find  us. 
It  is  n't  more  'n  twenty  feet  from  the  river  either,  and 
Bi)  we  can  keep  a  irood  lookout.  0,  I  know  yc  feel 
disappointed  like,  l)ut  yon  'II  have  to  take  an  old 
man's  word  that  it  's  all  rij^ht," 

They  soon  had  the  boat  made  fast  in  the  covo, 
which  extended  into  the  island  parallel  with  the 
river,  and  distant  from  it  only  about  twenty  feet 
The  ni«!;ht  was  now  upon  them,  although  it  was  not 
so  dark  but  they  could  easily  see  and  distinguish  the 
objects  along  the  shore. 

"Boys,  wo  '11  have  to  stay  here  for  a  day  or  two. 
It 's  a  good  place  to  hide  in,  and  the  only  thing  we 
can  do  is  to  hide  for  a  whihs,  and  throw  those  fellows 
off  our  track.  I  half  suspect  they  've  gone  up  ahead 
of  us,  anyway,  and  are  kcepin'  a  pretty  sharp  look, 
out  for  us  when  we  come  out  o'  the  river  into  the 
lake,"  said  the  hermit. 

"Then  you  think  that  boat  we  saw  up  ahead  of 
us  was  the  one  that  hailed  us  when  wo  were  fast 
aground  on  that  rock  ?  "  said  Andrew. 

"Yes,  I  do,"  said  the  hermit     "Course,  I  don't 

16 


! 


i 


'f' 


242 


TIIK  SKAUCH  FOU  ANDREW   FIELD 


know,  but  if  they  met  those  smugglers  behind   us 
they  had  a  chance  to  Icnrn  some  things." 

"Then  we  'd  have  done  better,"  said  Andrew,  "not 
to  have  put  in  when  we  did  at  all,  but  to  have  kept 
on  our  way." 

"Not  at  all,"  replied  the  hermit.  "They'd  a 
caught  us  sure,  then.  Ye  see,  our  boat  couldn't 
sail  then  as  it  can  now,  since  we  cast  overboard  the 
ballast.  We  're  all  right.  Besides,  to-morrov  's 
Sunday,  and  we  don't  want  to  sail  en  that  day  if  we 
can  help  it. " 

"My  folks  always  begin  to  keep  Sunday  on  Satur- 
day night,"  said  Elijah.  "They  say  that 's  the  way 
all  the  folks  do  in  Massachusetts." 

"  Hush ! "  said  the  hermit.  "  What 's  that  ?  "  and 
the  entire  party  stopjjed  to  listen.  The  sound  of 
voices  in  conversation  came  to  them  clearly. 

"It's  a  boat  on  the  river,  there.  It's  coming 
too,"  added  the  hermit.  "We  '11  go  down  near  the 
shore,  and  keep  inside  the  shadow  o'  the  trees,  and 
see  what  it  is  if  we  can." 

They  all  stepped  carefully  and  crept  to  the  shore. 
Out  in  the  dim  light  upon  the  river  they  could  see  a 
Bail,  and  it  was  coming  towards  them. 


— r -■"" — ' — 


WATCHING  THEIR  NEIGHBOliS 


243 


ohind  iiH 


•ew,  "not 
lavo  kept 

rhcy'd  a 
could  n't 
joard  the 
norrov  's 
day  if  we 

on  Satur- 

8  the  way 

at?"  and 
Round  of 

9  coming 
near  the 

trees,  and 

;he  shore. 
[>uld  see  a 


CHAPTER  XXVIII 


WATCHING  THEIR  NEIGHBORS 


''r^IIE  boys  could  hear  the  voices  of  the  men  on 
-*-  the  boat,  but  they  could  not  distinguish  the 
words.  They  could  see  that  there  were  three  men 
on  board,  but  their  features  or  faces  they  could  not 
discern. 

The  boat  ran  into  the  narrow  channel  between  the 
island  on  which  the  boys  were,  and  the  one  which  was 
opposite  to  thorn,  distant  not  more  than  a  hundred 
yards. 

"  They  're  going  to  land  over  there  as  sure 's  you're 
born,  Andrew,"  whispered  David  to  his  brother. 

"  I  believe  they  are,"  whispered  Andrew  in  reply. 

The  three  men  were  evidently  preparing  to.  do  just 
what  David  had  suggested.  They  ran  the  boat  up 
to  the  shore,  and,  jumping  out,  hauled  her  up  on  the 
beach.  They  were  talking  the  most  of  the  time,  but 
tlieir  words  could  not  be  heard  on  the  island  where 
the  boys  were,  and  so  they  could  learn  nothing  of 
their  plans. 

The  boys  in  the  dim  light  could  see  that  the  men 
were  making  preparations  for  the  night,  and,  leaving 


iiritaifcwit-iaM*^/ 1 


^^hSStfaa 


244 


THE  SEARCH  FOlt  ANDKEW  FIELD 


tlie  cook  to  watch  tlicm  and  to  report  their  move- 
ments if  they  made  any,  the  rest  silently  withdrew, 
and  came  back  to  their  camp.  Here  they  conversed 
in  low  tones,  and  talked  over  the  situation. 

"  We  '11  have  to  keep  some  one  on  the  lookout  all 
the  time  now,"  said  the  hermit.  "1  don't  know,  of 
course,  but  it 's  my  firm  opinion  that  that  boat  over  on 
the  other  island  has  something  to  do  with  us.  If  it 
has,  we've  got  to  make  it  our  business  to  find  out 
theirs." 

"How  1  wish  we  had  our  row-boat  that  we  gave 
that  fellow  we  took  prisoner  down  on  the  smugglers' 
island.  That  must  be  more'n  fifty  miles  from  here, 
and  he's  gone  with  it  too,"  said  Elijah. 

"  He 's  gone,  that 's  sure,"  said  the  hermit,  "  but 
that  island  is  n't  more  than  five  or  six  miles  from  here. 
Ye  see,  when  you're  sailin'  in  a  light  wind  and  agin' 
the  current,  ye  don't  go  very  fast." 

"  Well,  1  guess  I  'd  better  stay  on  guard  to-night," 
said  Andrew.  "  The  cook  's  a  good  man,  but  he  '11  be 
telling  the  other  party  pretty  quick  that  he  knows  all 
about  it." 

"That's  the  very  thing,"  said  the  hermit.  "You 
stay  for  one  part  of  the  night,  and  I  '11  stay  for  the 
other.  Yes,  1  know,"  he  said,  as  the  other  boys 
voluntered  their  services,  "  but  I  guess  it  '11  be  Andrew 
and  myself  that'll  have  to  watch  those  fellows,  for 
a  whiie  anyway." 


WATCHING  THEIR  NKIGIIBORS 


245 


ir  movc- 
^ithdrow, 
onvcrscd 

okout  ail 
know,  of 
t  over  oil 
18.  If  i«- 
find  out 

we  gave 
tiugglers' 
rom  here, 

nit,  "but 
roin  liere. 
ind  agiu' 

to-night," 
t  ho  '11  be 
knows  all 

t.  "  You 
ly  for  the 
;her  boys 
e  Andrew 
Hows,  for 


r^ 


In  a  few  minutes,  Andrew  went  down  to  the  place 
where  the  cook  was  standing,  and  sending  him  back 
to  the  camp,  seated  himself  in  the  shadow  of  a  tree, 
and  with  his  back  braced  against  it,  commenced  his  ^r\i 
vigil.  *  )  \ 

The  long  hours  passed  on,  but  not  a  sound  came 
from  the  other  island.  When  he  thought  that  half 
the  night  had  gone,  i\a  nearly  as  he  could  judge,  he 
went  back  to  the  camp,  and  roused  the  hermit,  who 
then  took  his  place  as  watchman,  and  Andrew  turned 
in  for  such  sleep  as  he  could  get. 

It  was  broad  daylight  when  the  hermit  came  back 
to  the  camp  to  find  every  one  astir.  He  reported 
that  no  movement  had  been  made  in  the  other  camp, 
and  that  if  it  were  not  for  the  presence  of  their  boat 
it  would  never  be  suspected  that  any  one  was  there 
at  all. 

"  Some  of  the  boys  can  go  on  duty  now,"  said  the 
hermit.  "  But  I  don't  believe  they  'd  better  take  their 
stand  where  Andrew  and  I  did.  It  'a  a  little  too  open 
there.  Just  a  little  further  down  stream  there  's  a 
clump  of  hazel  bushes  growin'  up  on  the  shore,  and 
they  '11  hide  anybody, if  he'll  lie  down  flat  on  the  bank 
behind  'em." 

David  was  chosen  as  the  new  watchman.  He  fol- 
lowed the  hermit's  instructions,  and,  going  around 
through  the  trees,  crept  up  behind  the  hazel  bushes, 
where,  lying  flat  on  his  stomach,  he  could  peer  out 


246 


THE  SEAKCII   FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 


!ti 


tluoiigli  the  bushes    at   the  opposite  island,  without 
the  possibility  of  being  seen  himself. 

For  two  full  hours  he  lay  there,  before  there  was  a 
movement  made  on  the  other  island.  Then  he  saw 
the  three  men  come  out  from  among  the  trees,  and 
proceed  to  cook  their  breaiifast  upon  the  shore.  One 
of  them  fished  as  the  others  prepared  their  breakfast, 
and  David  became  almost  as  much  interested  in  watch- 
ing his  success  as  he  would  have  been  if  the  sport 
were  his  own. 

The  men  ate  their  breakfast,  and  then  sat  down 
upon  the  bank  and  smoked.  One  of  them  seemed  to 
be  protesting  against  the  others,  but  what  the  question 
was  that  they  were  discussing  David  could  uot  ascer- 
tain. Finally,  they  all  three  arose,  and  together  they 
pushed  the  sailboat  off  from  the  bank,  and  down  into 
the  water. 

David  started  to  rise  and  to  run  for  the  camp  to 
report  their  movements,  but  he  hesitated  a  moment, 
and  then  decided  to  remain  a  little  longer,  and  see 
what  they  would  do.  If  they  hoisted  their  sail,  he 
should  run  back  to  the  camp.  If  they  did  not,  he 
should  remain  and  watch. 

David  watched  as  they  swung  the  boat  around,  to 
take  it  along  the  shore.  As  they  ('id  so,  a  low  ex- 
clamation burst  from  his  lips,  and  he  watched  more 
eagerly  than  before. 

They  drew  the  boat  along  the  shore  for  abou-.  fifty 


WATCHING  TUKlll  NEIGHUOHS 


247 


1,  without 

cro  was  a 
n  he  saw 
trees,  and 
)re.  One 
breakfast, 
in  watch- 
the  sport 

sat  down 
leemed  to 
e  question 
uot  ascer- 
ither  they 
down  into 

e  camp  to 
1,  moment, 
r,  and  see 
ir  sail,  he 
id  not,  he 

around,  to 
a  low  ex- 
jlied  more 

abouL  fifty 


feet,  two  pulling'  on  shore,  and  one  standing  on  board 
to  keep  ber  off  with  an  oar.  When  they  had  brougbt 
her  to  the  place  they  sought,  they  anchored  her  about 
ten  feet  from  shore,  and  the  man  who  was  on  board 
took  the  little  skiff  which  was  in  tow  and  pushed 

ashore. 

David  watched  now  with  intense  eagerness.  But 
the  men  soon  disappeared  among  the  trees,  taking 
something  which  they  carried  in  a  bag  with  them. 

In  the  course  of  an  hour  David  was  joined  by 
Elijah,  who  stretched  himself  on  the  grass  by  David's 

side. 

"Elijah,  do  you  sec  that  boat  over  there?'  whis- 
pered David. 

"It's  the  Pilot,  as  I'm  alive,"  whispered  Elijah 
excitedly  in  reply.  "And  yes,"  he  added,  "  that  'a  the 
hermit's  skiff  they  've  got  there  too." 

"I  believe  you're  right,"  said  David,  after  another 
look.  "  Now,  Ligc,  you  go  back  to  camp,  and  tell  'em 
what  we've  found  out.  The  hermit  said,  you  know, 
that  he  felt  sure  tbat  party  over  there  had  something 
to  do  with  ours,  and  he  was  right.  Hurry  up,"  he 
added  as  Elijah  seemed  to  hesitate.    "  They  ought  to 

know  about  it." 

His  companion  withdrew,  but  he  was  soon  joined  by 

Andrew  and  the  hermit,  who  came  creeping  to  his  side. 
"  The  boys  were  right,"  said  Andrew  in  a  whisper 
"  Yes,  they  were,"  said  the  hermit,  «  and  Elijah 


248 


THE   SEARCH  FOK  ANDREW  FIELD 


spoke  the  truth  when  he  said  they  had  my  skiff.  I  'd 
know  it  anywhere." 

"  Where  do  you  suppose  they  got  it?"  asked  David. 

"  Well,  we  know  wlio  had  it  anyway,"  said  the  her- 
mit. "  They  've  eitlier  caught  him,  or  else  he  's  joined 
'em.     Probably  that 's  what  ho 's  done." 

"  0,  look  there,  quick,"  said  David  in  an  excited 
whisper.  "Look  up  in  that  tree  over  beyond  the 
boat.  Tliere  's  a  man  up  tlierc.  What 's  he  doing  ? 
He's  got  a  glass  in  his  hand.    Look  at  him,  quick  !  " 

Tile  others  looked  as  they  were  directed.  Tlieic, 
high  up  in  a  tall  pine  tree,  sat  a  man  on  one  of  the 
liighcst  branches.  With  a  spy-glnss  he  seemed  to  be 
sweeping  +he  river. 

"  Do  you  suppose  he  can  see  us  from  up  there 
where  iie  is  V "  asked  Andrew. 

"  I  guess  not."  replied  the  hermit,  "  though  we  M 
better  go  right  back  and  take  the  mast  out  o'  the  boat. 
That  might  attract  his  attention  among  the  trees 
from  up  there  where  he  is.  I  '11  stay  here  and  you  go 
and  ship  it.  Do  it  as  quietly  and  quickly  as  ye  can. 
Hold  on  a  minute  thoup:h,"  he  added,  as  the  man  they 
had  been  watching  \  up  his  glass,  and  prepared  to 
descend.  "  Hold  on,  and  we  '11  see  what 's  going  to  be 
done  next." 

They  watched  the  man  as  he  slid  down  the  tree  and 
was  lost  to  sight  among  the  branches.  But  in  a 
moment  he  appeared  with  his  companions  upon  the 


r 


WATCHING  TIIEIU  NEIG1IH0U8 


249 


bank,  and  they  seemed  to  be  holding  an  earnest  con- 
versation, although  none  of  the  words  reached  tho 
listeners. 

Soon  they  all  three  stepped  into  the  skiff,  and,  row- 
ing rapidly  away,  disappeared  from  sight  behind  the 
island. 

"That's  funny,"  said  Andrew.  "What  do  you 
suppose  they're  up  to  now?" 

"Gone  to  the  ijiectin'-housc,  maybe,"  said  David 
with  a  laugh.     "  It 's  Sunday,  you  know." 

"  They  've  gone  over  to  one  of  tho  other  islands,  to 
make  some  more  observations,  I  think,"  said  the 
hermit  quietly.  "Now's  your  time  to  go  back  and 
see  to  that  mast.    Ye  better  go  right  ofif." 

Andrew  and  David  ran  back  to  the  camp,  and, 
telling  their  companions  of  their  experience,  they 
were  all  soon  at  work,  and  in  a  little  while  the  mast 
was  lying  upon  the  ground. 

Leaving  their  companions  in  the  camp,  Andrew 
and  David  rejoined  the  hermit  behind  the  hazel 
bushes.  He  reported  that  nothing  had  occurred 
during  their  absence,  and  no  signs  of  the  men  were 
now  to  be  seen.  The  Pilot  lay  at  anchor  where  they 
had  left  her,  and  not  a  sound  came  over  the  water. 

"They've  been  gone  an  hour  at  least,  haven't 
they?"  inquired  Andrew. 

"Yes,  T  should  say  so;  as  much  as  that  anyway," 
replied  the  hermit. 


250 


THE  SEARCH   FOU   ANDUKW    FIKLl) 


'^It'8  a  Hluiino  they 'vc  got  (ho  Pilot,"  contimiod 
Andrew.  "  Many  's  the  good  turn  she  'a  done  us ; 
and  there  she  is  now  so  close  by." 

A  thought  struck  Andrew,  "  Why  can't  wo  got 
her?"  said  he.  "We  couldn't  sail  away  in  her 
yet,  but  if  I  could  get  her,  and  bring  her  into  the 
cove  beside  your  boat,  wo  could  leave  her,  or  wo 
could  maybe  take  her  away  with  us  when  we  went. 
We  sha'n't  start  for  a  day  or  two  yet." 

"There's  a  big  risk  in  it,"  said  the  hermit. 
"These  men  are  likely  to  return  at  any  minute  now, 
for  I  think  they  only  went  away  to  try  and  get  a 
better  view  on  some  other  island.  If  they  should 
come  back  while  you  were  there,  I  should  be  afraid 
of  trouble." 

"Well,  I  believe  it's  worth  trying  for  anyhow," 
replied  Andrew.  "1  could  swim  over  to  where  she 
is  and  bring  her  over  here  into  the  cove  inside  of 
fifteen  minutes." 

"Well,"  said  the  hermit,  dubiously,  "I  don't  know 
but  it's  worth  trying;  I  don't  suppose  they'd  ever 
think  o'  lookin'  in  this  cove  for  her.  Your  only 
trouble  would  be  if  they  come  back  while  you  're 
try  in'  to  get  her.  But  if  you  want  to  try,  we  '11  keep 
watch  while  you  go." 

But  Andrew  was  already  throwing  off  his  clothes, 
and,  diving  into  the  river,  in  a  moment  he  was  on 
his  way,  swimming  towards  the  Pilot. 


iontinuctl 
done  us ; 

't  wo  got 
y  in  her 
into  the 
iv,  or  wo 
we  went. 

!  hermit, 
nute  now, 
ind  get  a 
cy  should 
be  afraid 

anyhow," 

ivhore  she 

inside  of 

on't  know 
ey  'd  ever 
STour  only 
lo  you  'ro 
Ne  'II  keep 

is  clothes, 
he  was  on 


AN   AUDITION  TO   TllK  FLEKT 


251 


CHAPTER   XXIX 

AN    ADDITION   TO   THE    ¥LKRT 

ANDREW  was  a  strong  swimmer,  and  in  a  sh-nt 
time  he  had  crossed  the  channel  and  reached 
the  Pilot.  The  hermit  and  David  had  watched  him 
with  intense  interest,  dividing  their  attention  be- 
tween Andrew  and  the  points  of  the  island,  around 
one  of  which  they  had  feared  every  moment  to  sec 
the  other  boat  returning.  They  knew  that  Andrew's 
life  might  pay  the  forfeit  of  his  daring,  if  the  men 
returned  and  discovered  his  purpose. 

Andrew  drew  himself  out  of  the  water,  and  stood 
on  the  Pilot's  deck.    Ho  looked  around,  but  he  could 

find  no  oars. 

"There  are  no  oars  here,"  he  callcii  out  to  his 
companions.     "  What  had  I  better  do  ? " 

"Get  a  branch  up  there  on  the  shore,  and  per- 
haps you  can  pole  her  across,"  replied  the  hernnt. 
"We  'II  keep  watch;  but  be  quick." 

Andrew  at  once  followed  the  hermit's  suggestion, 
and,  taking  a  dead  branch  from  the  shore,  he  drew 
up  the  Pilot's  anchor  and  pushed  her  out  into  the 
river.     He  sent  her  easily  from  the  shore,  but  soon 


252 


THE  8EAKCH   FOH  ANDREW   FIKLI) 


found  tho  water  WHS  ho  tlcc})  that  lii«  pole  waa  use- 
IcsH.  lie  at  once  juniped  ovcrhoard,  and,  taking  hold 
of  the  atern,  began  to  churn  the  water,  and  to  push 
from  behind.  The  littU^  boat  began  to  inovo  again, 
but  her  progroas  aeenied  very  alow.  Still  Andrew 
kc[)t  on,  and  steadily  ahc  ncared  the  shore. 

David  meanwhile  waa  in  a  fever  of  excitement. 
Coming  out  from  behind  tho  buahea,  he  ran  up  and 
down  the  shore,  watching  for  the  other  boat  to  ap- 
pear around  cither  point  of  the  ialand. 

But  all  thinga  have  an  end,  and  after  a  time 
Andrew  had  pushed  the  Pilot  across  the  channel  and 
regained  the  shore.  His  companions  eagerly  seized 
the  painter,  and  atarting  on  the  run,  drew  the  boat 
along  tho  shore,  and  soon  had  her  around  the  point 
and  within  the  cove,  and  made  her  fast  beside  the 
hermit's  boat.  The  maat  was  taken  out  and  placed 
on  the  ground  along  with  the  other.  Meanwhile, 
Andrew  had  dressed  in  all  haste,  and  now  joined 
them  just  as  they  had  finished  their  work. 

"That's  what  I  call  a  pretty  good  day's  work,'* 
said  the  hermit,  looking  at  the  two  boats,  lying  side 
by  aide,  with  evident  satisfaction. 

"Yes,  that 's  so,"  responded  Andrew,  a  little  dubi- 
ously. "  Only  1  don't  just  like  this  kind  of  work  on 
Sunday.  Why,  my  mother  doesn't  even  cook  on 
that  day,  but  docs  it  all  on  the  day  before." 

"No  more  do  I  like  it,"  replied  the  hermit;  "but 


^  V 


AN  ADnrnoN  to  tiik  flket 


268 


war  times  change  most  cvci  ything.  Somo  of  tho 
frrcatcHt  battles  have  been  fou^'lit  on  that  day.  But 
there  '8  one  thing  I  'm  pretty  sure  of,  and  that  »« 
that  those  men,  when  they  come  back  and  fmd  their 
boat  g.mo,  won't  stop  for  Sunday  or  anything  else  if 
they  get  any  suspicion  of  where  she  is. " 

"I  know  that,"  said  Andrew,  "and  I  suppose  we  'd 
hotter  go  right  back  there  where  we  were,  and  keep 
an  eye  on  them  when  they  do  come  back.  My,  but 
won't  it  be  a  sight  to  see  'em!  1  only  hope  they 
■won't  see  us." 

"We'll  have  to  divide  our  cargo  now,"  said  the 
hermit,  "  and  put  part  of  it  aboard  the  Pilot.     Somo 
of  us  '11  sail  in  her,  too.     Tl.at  '11   make  it  a  good 
deal  easier,  and  I  think  we  can  make  a  heap  better 
time  leaving  this  country  with   two  boats  than  we 
could  with   one,     I   suppose  the  others  '11  want  to 
know  'bout  this,  for  if  any  on  'em  should  go  down 
where  we  were,  and  find  us  gone,  they  'd  be  likely  to 
do  something.     David,  you  go  back  to  the  camp  and 
tell  'em  what  we  've  been  a  doin',  and  Andrew  and 
I  '11  go  back  to  where  we  were,  and  keep  a  lookout." 
As  they  started  at  once  David  left  thorn  and  went 
back  to  the  camp.     When  he  had  t3ld  his  story  they 
were  all  eager  to  go  down  on  the  bank  and  watch  for 
the  return  of  the  other  men,  but  the   cook  "knew, 
yes,  he  knew  all  about  it,"  that  that  would  be  the 
very  thing  they  ought  not  to  do.     "  Ye  see,"  said  he, 


1  ■•' 


254 


THE   8KAUCII  FOll   ANDUKW   FIKLD 


"tlicy  Ml  look  mif^lity  Hlinrp  wlion  thoy  got  back,  for 
that  boat,  and  ovory  extra  one  ti,...  •  on  }i;u;ird  will 
increase  tbo  chances  o'  some  one  bi  Js'  Hcen. " 

The  boys  acknowledged  the  force  of  it  is  words, 
and  each  did  his  best  to  curb  his  curiosity.  Avtcr  a 
little  while,  so  restless  had  they  become,  that  the 
cook  turned  to  Elijah  and  said,  "If  yc  think  ye  can 
crawl  down  there  without  Icrln'  seen,  it  might  do  no 
harm  fer  ye  to  go  and  hud  out  what  'a  goin'  on. 
Then  ye  can  come  back  and  (I'il  mb." 

Elijah  needed  no  second  biddinj,':,  nnd  starting  off 
throtigh  the  woods,  i>"on  dlHappeareo  from  sight. 

"I  think  this  is  about  the  tightest  squeeze  we've 
had  yet,"  said  David.  "If  they  begin  to  look  round 
much  when  they  come  back,  1  'm  afraid  we  're 
goners. " 

"  Can't  we  fight  ?  "  said  Henry.  "  We  've  got 
twice  as  many  's  they  have." 

"  We  don't  want  to  fight  at  all,  if  wo  can  help  it. 
I  'd  rather  give  up  both  boats,  and  all  the  stuff  we 
took,  than  to  take  you  boys  into  a  fracas  now.  Some 
on  ye  might  not  go  home,  and  home  's  better  'n  all 
the  prize  money  in  the  world.  At  least,  I  guess  the 
hermit  'd  agree  with  me,  fer  neither  one  of  us  has  got 
such  a  place  on  this  earth,"  said  the  cook,  rising  and 
looking  about  to  see  what  arrangements  he  could 
make  for  providing  something  to  eat.  "  Some  o'  ye 
might  find  some  berries  on  this  side  o'  the  island. 


on. 


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1 


V 


A? 


AN  ADDITION  TO  TIIK   FLEET 


255 


S'pose  ye  look  and  seo.    Yoii  'd  be  out  o'  sight  o'  the 
other  men,  and  it'd  kind  o'  serve  to  keep  ye  buay," 
he  added,  as  the  boys  started  to  follow  his  susgestion. 
Elijah,   when   he   loft  the   camp,  had    taken  the 
regular   route  to  the  hazel   bushes.     He   found   the 
hermit  and  Andrew  lying  flat  upon  the  ground,  one 
watching  one  point  of  the  island,  and  the  other  the 
other.     Not  a  sound  had  been  heard  as  yet  to  indi- 
cate that  the  three  men  they  had  seen  were  now  in 
existence.     But  Elijah  had  hardly  stretched  himself 
on  the  ground  beside  the  others,  when  the  quick  car 
of  the  hermit  detected  a  sound  that  caused  him  to 
start.    "  'Sh,  boys,"  said  he.    "I  think  there  's  some- 
thin'   a  comin'    round   the   point   on  the    left  over 

there." 

"They  went   around   the   other   point  when   they 

left,"  whispered  Andrew. 

"Yes,  but  it  doesn't  follow,"  said  the  hermit, 
"that  they're  obliged  to  come  back  the  same  way 
they  went,  does  it?  They've  been  explorin'  s.ll 
round.     But  hush!  here  they  come.     Now  we'll  see 

what  they  '11  do." 

The  skiff  with  the  three  men  in  it  came  slowly 
around  the  island,  one  man  rowing,  and  tlie  other 
two  seated  in  the  stern;  they  were  engaged  in  ear- 
nest conversation,  and  evidently  were  not  pleased  at 
the  results  of  their  investigation.  They  came  on, 
apparently  taking  no  thought  of  their  sailboat  until 


V 


A? 


•« 


256 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


they  were  witliin  fifty  feet  of  the  place  whore  she  had 
been  anchored,  and  were  not  much  more  than  that 
distance  from  where  our  watchers  wore  hidden. 

Suddenly  one  of  the  men  started,  and  pointed 
excitedly  to  the  spot  where  the  Pilot  had  been 
anchored.  The  oarsman  stopped  pulling,  and  both 
the  men  who  were  seated  in  the  stern  stood  up  and 
looked  anxiously  around. 

Elijah  laughed  as  he  saw  their  consternation ;  but 
a  quick  glance  from  the  hermit  silenced  him,  and  all 
three  waited  to  see  what  the  party  would  now  do. 
Their  tones  became  louder,  and  their  words  were 
clearly  heard  by  those  who  were  behind  the  hazel 
bashes. 

"  I  don't  believe  you  've  got  the  right  island,"  said 
one  in  the  stern.  "The  boat  is  n't  here,  and  I  don't 
think  you  can  find  your  way  among  these  pesky 
islands.  1  'd  as  soon  look  for  a  needle  in  a  haystack 
as  try  to  find  my  way  round  here." 

"Know  the  way,"  replied  the  oarsman.  "I  could 
find  my  way  here  in  the  dark." 

"Well,  then,"  replied  the  other,  "  where 's  the 
boat  gone,  I  'd  like  to  know?  " 

The  third  man,  who  had  taken  no  part  in  the  con- 
versation, here  interrupted  them,  and  calling  their 
attention  to  a  spot  on  the  shore,  said:  "It  is  the 
right  place.  Sec,  there  's  where  we  made  a  fire 
when  we  cooked  our  breakfast. " 


1) 

3rc  she  had 
than  that 

Jdcn. 

[id  pointed 
had    bcon 

■,  and  both 

ood  up  and 

lation ;  but 
im,  and  all 
d  now  do. 
vords  were 
the  hazel 

land,"  said 
md  I  don't 
lese  pesky 
a  haystack 

« I  could 

here  's  the 

in  the  con- 

lUing  their 

"It  is  the 

lade  a  fire 


AN  ADDITION  TO  THE  FLEET 


257 


"That's  so,"  muttered  the  other.  "But  what's 
become  o'  the  boat  ? " 

"  Mebbe  she  'a  dragged  her  anchor  and  got  into  the 
current,"  said  the  other. 

The  oarsman,  acting  upon  the  suggestion,  pulled 
rapidly  around  the  point,  saying,  "  Well,  if  she 's 
got  loose,  she  's  gone  with  the  current,  and  we  '11  go 
down  stream,  and  see  if  we  can  find  her, " 

"They  've  gone,"  said  Elijah,  as  they  disappeared 
around  the  point  "  Thank  goodness !  I  was  afraid 
they  'd  come  over  here. " 

"They  '11  come  back  again  pretty  quick,"  said  the 
hermit.  "  We  '11  just  lay  low  here,  and  wait  for 
developments;  they'll  come,  if  we  wait." 

It  was  a  good  hour  before  the  watchers  heard  the 
sound  of  the  returning  oars.  The  men  were  silent  as 
they  came  back,  until  they  reached  the  place  where 
the  Pilot  had  been  anchored. 

"I  tell  you,"  said  one,  "she  never  got  adrift  Dj 
ye  s'pose  she  could  drag  her  anchor  and  get  so  far 
away  from  here  that  we  could  n't  find  her  after  a 
good  hour's  searching  ?    I  know  better. " 

"  Well,  where  is  she,  then  ?  "  responded  the  oars- 
man. 

"I  don't  know  where  she  is,  but  I  tell  ye  some 
one  's  took  her.  It 's  some  o'  them  fellers  we  're 
lookin'  fer.  I  knew  they  could  n't  get  out  o'  ^ho 
river  with  all  we  've  got  on  the  lookout     They  're 

17 


, 


7i^?^V^?a¥?.-:;>;:r:5S9S:^"-.*v;';??g»i!i^iE  "?  ,!-<: 


f'-'fe'"'-!^-*!!*¥lJS(.~'S!^'^ 


2B8  THE  SEAUCII  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

down  here   somcwhcros  among  those  islands.     It  's 
fool-work  wc 've  been  a  doin'." 

"Let's  go  ashore  and  sec  if  we  can  sec  any  signs 
<,'   anybody  havin'   been   here,"  said  the   oarsman 
Acting  at  once  upon  this  suggestion,  they  landed 
and  began  to  search   all   along  the  shore  for  any 
traces  of  visitors  having  been  there.     But  the  most 
careful  search  failed  to  reveal  any  evidence  of  any 
one  having    been   on  shore.     They  resumed    then- 
places  in  the  skiff  and  contim.ed  their  deliberations. 
"  Yo  see,  there  is  n't  even  the  mark  of  a  boot-heel 
on  the  shore  there,"  said  one.     "They  come  along 
here  in  a  boat,  and   p«t  took  her  in   tow.     Mebbe 
they  'vc  hid  her  somewhere  among  the  islands  here. 

The  little  party  behind   the  bushes   glanced   ner- 
vously at  each  other  at  these  words,  and  their  ner- 
vousness was  not  lessened  any  when  they  saw  the 
oarsman  pick  up  his  oars  as  if  he  were  preparing  to 
act  upon  this  suggestion.    But  he  hesitated  a  minute, 
as  he  said,  «  Well,  I  don't  know.     If  they  re  hid, 
it  can't  be  very  far  away,  for  we  haven't  been  gone 
long,  and  there  is  n't  much  wind.     Mebbe  we  d  bet- 
ter take  a  turn  round  here,  though,"  and  he  glanced 
towards  the  island  on  which  our  party  lay  hidden. 

«0  pshaw!"  said  the  third  man,  "they  havent 
tried  'to  hide  her;  they  '11  try  to  get  out  jest  as  soon 
as  they  can.  You  know  Tom  said  that  they  said 
they  was  goin'  to  Sackctt's  Harbor.   I  tell  ye  they  ve 


ids.     It 's 

any  signs 
oarsman, 
ey  landed 
■e  for  any 
t  the  most 
ice  of  any 
mcd    their 
ibcrations. 
a  boot -heel 
:omc  along 
»\v.     Mebbe 
ands  here." 
lanced   ncr- 

I  their  ner- 
ley  saw  the 
preparing  to 
)d  a  minute, 
;hey  're  hid, 
t  been  gone 
3e  we  'd  bet- 
i  he  glanced 
ly  hidden, 
hey  haven't 

jest  as  soon 
at  they  said 

II  ye  they  've 


AN  ADDITION  TO  THK  FLEET 


259 


started.  They  can't  get  by  our  men;  and  yet  my 
'pinion  is  that  we  'd  better  start  out  at  once  and 
go  up  where  they  are.  If  they  should  see  the  Pilot 
they  'd  think  'twas  us,  and  let  her  get  \v  without  a 
shot.  Wo  'd  better  pull  as  lively  's  we  can,  and  tell 
'em  about  this.  They  '11  never  git  by  us  and  them 
too."    . 

The  suggestion  struck  the  others  forcibly,  and  the 
oarsman,  picking  up  his  oars  again,  began  to  pull  as 
rapidly  as  he  could  up  the  river.  They  soon  were 
out  of  sight,  and  the  three  watchers  behind  the  hazel 
bushes  rose  and  started  for  the  camp. 


iHi 


260 


THE  SEARCH  FOtt  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  XXX 

THE   VOYAGE  RESUMED 

T-HE  story  of  the  watchers  was  eagerly  listened  to 
T  by  all.  And  when  the  hermit  told  of  the  eager 
haste  with  whieh  the  three  men  had  started  to  go  to 
the    f^  ends,  the  enthusiasm  of  Henry  broke  forth. 

H     ah!"    said  he,  "now  we're  the  same  a. 
.,0™     They  -ve  cleared  out  for  good,  and  we  can 
rTanv  toe      I  wish  we  eonld  go  right  away." 
"^^CXi,"  said  the  hermit.    "I  think  we  have 
the  most  seri'ous  business  of  the   whole  tr,p  yet 

'twhyfhow's  that!"  inquired  Henry,  looking 
anmewhat  crestfallen, 
"well  they  've  got  a  line  0'  pickets  np  near  the 

lake  I  gu-J-  ^"P"^*  *»  """•"•  ""■'  '°'         Tn 
a  tough  job  ^ettin-  through  'emi  but  1  guess  we  ean 

doTt     Leastwise  we  'U  hope  so,  and  we  won't  gue 
"^'r^t::::  we  startT"    persisted   Henry. 

"ll'Tt^i^^teM'^tter  stay  here  for  awhile. 
If  they  don't  see  anything  of  us  for  a  few  days,  they 


1 


TlIK   VOYAGE   RESUMED 


261 


istencd  to 
the  eager 
3d  to  go  to 
>ke  forth. 
3   same  as 
nd  we  can 
away." 
Ilk  we  have 
,e  trip  yet 

ry,  looking 

up  near  the 
s  goin'  to  be 
;ue88  we  can 
3  won't  give 

}ted    Henry. 

tor  a  while. 
>w  days,  they 


may  conchide  that  we  've  run  the  blockade,  and 
give  up  some  o'  their  sharp  lookouts.  They  '11  look 
miglity  sharp  for  a  while  now,  'specially  when  these 
men  go  back  with  their  story." 

"Did  you  know  any  of  these  men  ?  "  inquired  the 
cook  of  the  hermit. 

"No,  I  guess  not;  though  one  of  'em  made  me 
think  he  was  in  that  boat  that  helped  us  off  when 
we  struck  that  rock  up  yonder." 

"So  he  did  me,"  said  Andrew.  "I  was  sure  I  'd 
seen  him  before.  But  I  think  Mr.  Ogden's  just 
right  about  this  starting  0)it  for  home.  I  'm  just  as 
anxious  as  any  of  you  to  get  home,  and  I  think  I  've 
as  good  a  right  to  feel  so,"  he  added,  as  a  shadow 
crossed  his  face  at  the  thought  of  his  father.  "  But 
if  we  wait  awhile,  I  think  we  '11  stand  a  better  chance 
of  getting  by  them  than  if  we  start  right  off." 

This  proposal  of  the  hermit  was  concurred  in,  and 
the  party  set  about  doing  the  best  they  could  to  pass 
the  time.  On  the  following  day  they  carefully  ex- 
amined the  Pilot,  and  found  that  the  holes  which 
their  former  acquaintance  Smith  had  cut  in  her  bot- 
tom had  all  been  thoroughly  repaired,  sd  that  she 
did  not  leak  a  drop.  A  part  of  the  cargo  was  trans- 
ferred to  her,  and  it  was  agreed  that  Andrew  should 
sail  her  when  they  started  again,  and  that  David  and 
the  cook  should  form  his  crew.  They  were  to  keep  as 
closely  as  they  could  in  the  wake  of  the  hermit's  boat 


262  THE   8EA1UH   FOK  ANDREW  FIELD     . 

But  the  time  hung  heavily  on  the  boys'  hands.  Do 
what  they  would,  the  hours  were  slow  in  passing, 
and  they  all  declared  that  they  would  rather  take 
their  ehances  in  passing  their  enemies  than  to 
remain  there  in  enforced  idleness.  Henry  took  ns 
lines  and  fished  with  his  accustomed  success  off  the 
rocks  on  one  side  of  the  island,  for  the  hermit  was 
not  willing  for  him  to  Tcnture  out  in  the  stream, 
where  he  could  be  seen  by  any  passing  boat. 

They  kindled  no  fire,  except  such  as  was  absolutely 
necessary  in  cooking  their  meals.  And  their  favorvte 
occupation  was  listening  to  the  stor.es  wh.ch  the 
hermit  and  the  cook  would  tell  them  about  the  strug- 
Kles  of  the  Revolutionary  times. 

"One  o'  the  hardest  things,"  said  the  hermit  one 
time,  as  they  were  all  seated  on  the  ground  after  eat- 
ing their  dinner,  "was  the  life  of  a  poor  man  af  er 
the  last  war  was  finished.     It  took  a  good  wlnle  for 
the  Colonies  to  get  together,  even  after  they  were 
all  free  from  Great  Britain.     One  wanted  one  thing, 
and  another  didn't,  'specially  if  the  other  wanted  it 
pretty  bad.     That  made  a  bad  weakness,  ye  see,  for 
there  was  n't  many  laws,  and  what  there  was  was  u  t 
very   good.     It 's  something  like  the  weakness  the 
*  United  States  has  had  in  not  protecting  her  sailors 
from  the  English  press-gangs.     Well,   as  I  was  a 
sayin',"  he  continued,  «  a  poor  man  had  a  pretty  hard 
time  of  it.     What  with  breakin'  the  ground,  and 


mumM 


tlMM 


J^ 


wmb- 


D 


THE   VOYAOK  UKSI;MK,1) 


263 


D( 


ands. 
a  passing, 
athcr  take 
8  than  to 
,ry  took  his 
cess  ofY  the 
hermit  was 
the  stream, 
at. 

B  absolutely 
icir  favorite 
i  which  the 
it  the  Strug- 

hermit  one 
nd  after  cat- 
r  man  after 
od  while  for 
;r  they  were 
id  one  thing, 
ler  wanted  it 
8,  yc  see,  for 
e  was  wasn't 
weakness  the 
g  her  sailors 
as  I  was  a 
a  pretty  hard 
ground,  and 


chMirin'  the  trees,  and  the  lung  ways  to  take  what 
little  stuff  he  could  raiao  to  nuirkct,  ho  was  kept 
pretty  well  ground  down.  Tht^y  M  take  a  man,  if 
tliey  wanted  to,  and  throw  him  into  prison  for  <febt. 
It  didn't  make  any  dilT(M-ence  how  poor  ho  was,  or 
how  many  babies  he  had  at  home,  or  if  his  wife  was 
sick  abed.  If  ho  could  n't  pay  up,  they  could  put 
him  in  jail,  and  just  leave  bis  family  to  take  care  o' 
themselves  or  starve,  juat  as  they  sinv  lit." 

"  Was  this  after  the  war,  or  before  ?  "  atkcd  Elijah. 
"0,  after  it,"  replied  the  hermit.  "It  was  while 
we  was  a  gettin'  together  into  one  country.  Wo 
had  lots  o'  country,  but  mighty  few  good  laws,  till 
all  the  Colonies  had  agreed  to  the  Conatitiition. 
Then  they  had  a  good  Ijasis  to  build  on,  ye  see,  and 
things  after  a  while  got  better." 

"I   should   have   thought   the  pooi»lc  would  have 
rebelled?"  said  David. 

"0,  they  did,  some,"  said  the  hermit,  "leastwise 
they  tried  to.  I  've  heard  'em  tell  about  somo 
fanners  roimd  Worcester  and  Springfield  (they  're  in 
Massachusetts,  ye  know)  that  was  gettin'  poorer  and 
poorer  every  year.  Nobody  could  collect  any  debts, 
and  there  was  only  a  little  business  done.  Finally 
things  got  so  bad,  with  the  courts  tryin'  to  collect 
the  debts,  that  they  did  have  a  little  rebellion. 
There  was  a  man  there  named  Shays,  Dan'l  Shays, 
he  led  'em  on.     It  did  n't  amount  to  much,  but  it 


vmmm 


264 


THE  SKAUCII   von  ANDHKW   FIKLI) 


scared  the  other  Coh>uie8  Bome,  'cause  none  on  'em 
knew  which  one  would  be  the  next  to  catch  it  I 
giicHH  it  helped  thin.tis  on  Ihou^^h." 

"  Wlien  was  this  Shiiyh  Uehiillion  ?  "  asked  David. 
«'0,  'twas  in  1787,"  said  the  hermit,  risinj;  and 
f,'oin«?  down  to  the  shore.  The  others  followed  liim, 
and  Ihc  boys,  seating  theinsidves  on  the  sides  of  the 
l)Oiit8,  swung  their  feet,  and  looked  the  iiicture  of 
im|)atienco. 

♦'  When  do  yon  think  we  can  start  ?  "  said  Andrew 
finally.  "  Wo  've  waited  three  days  now,  and  it  seems 
to  me  it  '11  be  safe  to  go  pretty  soon." 

"Well,"  replied  the  hermit,  "1  was  a  thinkin'  wc 
could  maybe  start  to-morrow.  We  want  to  put  out 
before  it's  fairly  light,  and  then  hide  somewhere 
durin'  the  day,  and  go  on  again  at  night.  I  'd 
go  in  the  night  all  the  time  if  I  only  was  sure  o' 
the  channel  here.  I  don't  want  to  get  aground 
again,  'specially  if  these  fellows  are  on  the  watch 

yet." 

"No  more  do  I,"  replied  Andrew.  "But  when 
they  'vc  been  waiting  three  days,  and  have  n't  seen  a 
sign  of  us,  it  seems  to  me  it 's  safe  to  think  of  going. 
I  don't  want  to  do  anything  rash,"  he  added,  "but 
when  I  think  of  father  sick  at  home  and  mother  a 
worrying,  why  it  seems  to  me  I  'd  be  willing  to  take 
some  chances." 

"So  we  will,"  said  the  hermit,  "and  T  think  it  '11 


D 

•no  on  'em 
btch  it.     I 

<cd  David, 
i-ising  nnd 
owed  liim, 
Idea  of  the 
liicture  of 

lid  Andrew 
nd  it  seems 

;hinkin'  wo 
to  put  out 
somewhere 
ight.  I  'd 
vns  sure  o' 
et  aground 
I  the  watch 

"But  when 
'0  n't  seen  a 
Ilk  of  going, 
added,  "but 
d  mother  a 
ling  to  take 

r  think  it  '11 


THE  VOYAGK  RESUMED 


265 


be  safe  to  try  it  in  the  mornin'.     We  '11  be  gcttin' 
everything  all  ready  now." 

A  careful  inspection  of  the  boats  was  had,  the 
masts  were  set  up,  and  the  sails  made  ready,  so  that 
as  soon  as  they  came  aboard  in  the  morning  an 
immediate  start  could  be  made. 

The  boys  were  so  excited  that  they  could  eat  but 
little  of  the  supper  that  night  which  the  cook  |ire- 
parc<l.  They  were  talking  of  their  journey,  and  the 
possibility  of  running  the  blockade,  and  when  they 
would  rcaclvhomc. 

Wrapped  in  their  blankets,  it  was  a  long  time 
before  sleep  came  to  them,  and  it  seemed  to  David 
that  he  had  only  just  fallen  asleep  when  the  hermit 
roused  them,  and  they  came  forth  from  the  tent. 

"  It 's  about  three  o'clock,  as  near  as  I  can  judge," 
said  he,  "and  we  've  a  fine  mornin'  to  make  a  start. 
"It's   rainin'    some,   and    going  to  be  dark    and 

cloudy. " 

The  boys  found  a  gentle  rain  falling  when  they 
were  awake,  and  the  darkness  gave  no  sign  of  the 
morning's  approach. 

"It  does  n't  seem  to  me  it 's  midnight  yet,"  said 
Elijah,  "but  I  suppose  it  is,  for  Mr.  Ogden  knows. 
But  I  'm  ready  to  start  if  it  isn't  nine  o'clock." 

They  placed  thv  tent  on  board,  and  their  blankets, 
and  all  the  cooking  utensils  they  had  used,  and  in 
a  short  time  they  were  out  on  the  river  started  for 


(S*sre?ai™rfi'''w?aMiw»a«e«?WK?«ffW«^'i^^^ 


•-I»^,"«Wi.— V"^ 


WQ 


THE  SEARCH  FOK  ANDREW  FIELD 


home.  The  hermit  had  cautioned  them  all  to  be 
silent,  and  so,  if  any  words  were  spoken,  they  were 
in  low  or  whispered  tones. 

"It's  strange,"  said  he,  "how  we  never  can  get 
a  breeze  when  we  want  it.  There  's  hardly  any  air 
stirrin'  this  mornin',"  as  he  glanced  at  the  river, 
noting  how  slow  was  the  progress  they  were  making. 

"  Don't  you  want  us  to  row  ?  "  asked  Elijah. 
"That 'II  help  some." 

" No,"  replied  the  hermit.  " It  'II  make  too  much 
noise,  and  we  nmst  keep  near  together.  I  can  hardly 
see  the  Pilot  now." 

They  kept  on,  in  spite  of  their  slow  progress,  for 
some  time  after  the  sun  had  risen,  as  the  rain  con- 
tinued to  fall,  and  the  clouds  shut  out  some  of  the 
light.  But  about  nine  o'clock,  as  the  rain  ceased, 
the  hermit  began  to  look  about  among  the  islands 
for  a  place  to  land.  He  soon  found  an  island  that 
suited  him,  and  he  ran  the  boat  in  under  the  shelter 
of  some  overhanging  trees.  The  Pilot  followed  his 
example,  and  soon  both  boats  were  made  fast,  and 
the  boys  all  leajjcd  ashore. 

They  were  in  a  little  bay  that  indented  the  island, 
which  appeared  to  be  much  larger  than  the  one  on 
which  they  had  last  landed,  and,  while  it  furnished 
a  somewhat  retired  shelter,  was  still  open  to  the 
view  of  any  one  approaching  from  the  east. 

"There's  no  use  in  taking  the  masts  out  here," 


all  to  bo 
liey  were 

■  can  get 
f  any  air 
the  river, 
I  making, 
i   Elijah. 

too  much 
in  hardly 

gross,  for 
rain  con- 
le  of  the 
n  ceased, 
e  islands 
land  that 
le  shelter 
owed  his 
fast,  and 

le  island, 
;e  one  on 
'uruished 
n  to  the 

it  here," 


THE  VOYAGE  UESUMEI) 


267 


said  the  hermit,  as  he  lowered  the  sail.  " The  boat 
can  be  seen  so  plain  that  a  bare  mast  won't  call  any- 
body's attention  to  it.  I  reckon  we  have  n't  made 
more  than  five  miles." 

"We  must  have  sailed  more 'n  that,"  said  the 

cook. 

"I  mean  in  a  straight  course,"  replied  the  hermit. 
"Ye  sec,  we've  had  to  back  and  fill  so  much,  and 
dodge  in  and  out  among  the  islands,  and  all  that, 
with  the  current,  keepH  us  from  goin'  ahead  very 
fast.  When  we  once  get  out  o'  the  river,  we  '11  let 
her  fly.     Then  we  '11  make  some  time.  " 

The  party  were  soon  eating  the  breakfast  which 
the  cook  prepared  on  shore,  and  then  they  all  turned 
to  the  hermit  for  instructions  for  the  day. 

"  We  '11  have  to  hang  round  here  all  day,"  said  he. 
"  By  and  by,  when  we  've  got  rested  up,  and  had  our 
dinner,  we  '11  make  a  little  tour.  Perhaps,  if  we  go 
out  on  the  other  side  o'  the  island,  we  may  be  able 
to  see  something." 

Time  hung  heavily  on  the  boys'  hands  till  early 
in  the  afternoon,  after  they  had  eaten  their  din- 
ner, when,  leaving  the  cook  in  camp  to  stand  on 
guard,  and  giving  him  instructions  to  fire  his  gun  if 
anything  alarming  occurred,  they  started  out  to 
make  a  tour  of  the  island. 

They  walked  to  the  farther  side,  and  there  obtained 
a  full  view  of  the  river  stretching  away  before  them. 


lUMuliii'imiiiif"^'' 


268 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"This  is  a  great  river,  isn't  it,  Andrew?"  said 
David,  enthusiastically. 

"Yes,"  replied  Andrew.  "Most  too  great  just 
now.     I  wish  we  were  out  of  it." 

But  whichever  way  they  looked,  not  a  sign  of  boat 
or  man  was  to  be  seen,  and,  as  the  hour  was  growing 
late,  they  started  to  return  to  their  camp. 

"It  looks  like  clear  sailing  now,  boys,"  said  the 
hermit,  "  and  we  '11  put  out. "  But  hardly  had  he 
uttered  the  words,  when  the  report  of  the  cook's 
gun  was  heard.  As  they  were  almost  in  camp  now, 
they  started  on  the  run,  and  as  they  reached  it  they 
saw  a  man  near  shore,  sitting  in  a  little  skiflf,  who, 
looking  curiously  at  them,  quickly  began  to  row, 
and  was  soon  out  of  sight. 

"That  was  our  prisoner,"  said  the  boys  together. 

"Yes,  I  think  it  was,"  said  the  hermit,  soberly, 
"  and  his  visit  does  n't  promise  any  good  for  us 
either,  I  'm  afraid." 


THE  rUlSOKER'S  EXPERIENCE 


269 


IV  ?  "  said 


jrcat  just 

;n  of  boat 
s  growing 

"  said  the 
y  had  he 
he  cook's 
amp  now, 
ed  it  they 
kifif,  who, 
n  to  row, 

ogether. 
,  soberly, 
od  for  us 


CHAPTER  XXXI 

THE  prisoner's   EXPERIENCE 

WHEN  our  party  had  released  their  prisoner 
on  the   island  where  the  smugglers'  cave 
was,  he  had  used  the  one  oar  which  Andrew  had  left 
him  as  a  paddle,  and  had  soon  put  several  islands 
between  him  and  his  captors.     When  he  was  well  out 
of  sight,  he  seated  himself,  and  though  he  continued 
quietly  to  paddle  on,  he  was  in  great  perplexity  as 
to  what  course  he  should  pursue.     He  had  spoken 
truly  when  he  told  the  hermit  that  he  had  no  love  for 
Smith,  and  that  he  had  received  nothing  as  his  share 
yet  for  the  work  he  had  been  engaged  in  for  the  past 
six  weeks.     Besides,  he  had  had  no  vicious  tenden- 
cies, and  had  been  drawn  into  the  enterprise  more 
from  weakness  of  character  than  from  any  other 
cause.     The  smugglers,  some  of  whom  had  known 
him  long,  and  were  well  acquainted  with  his  gen- 
erous heart  and   weak  will,  had  drawn  him  with 
them,  regarding  him  as  one  who  could  be  used  with 
profit  by  them,   and  as  not  likely  ever  to  make 
trouble  for  them  or  among  them. 


i 


:imifii»>»i 


.MUuwil'M"^iiJ^«'iiiil(iWIIII'Wlll'»i 


270 


TflE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


But  the  man  was  troiiblod  now.  He  was  think- 
ing, as  much  as  his  dull  brain  was  capable,  ol  what 
was  the  best  course  for  him  to  pursue.  Should  he 
go  home?  But  others  were  suspicious  of  him  there 
now,  and,  as  the  war  had  broken  out,  he  was  afraid 
of  what  the  consequences  might  be  to  him.  Should 
he  look  up  the  smugglers  ?  In  his  mind  he  could 
see  the  savage  face  of  Smith,  as  he  told  him  how  he 
had  been  taken  prisoner,  and  that  his  captors  had 
taken  all  they  could  carry  away  of  the  valuables 
stored  in  the  cave.  At  this  last  thought  he  fairly 
shuddered,  and  quickly  glanced  about  him  as  if  ex- 
pecting the  brutal  smuggler  to  appear  immediately. 

But  the  problem  was  soon  settled  for  him,  for  the 
current  had  been  carrying  him  rapidly  down  the 
stream  during  his  meditations,  and  he  had  been  all 
the  time  half  unconsciously  paddling  with  his  oar, 
and  so  adding  to  the  impetus  of  the  stream.  It  was 
not  long  before  he  came  in  sight  of  the  sailboat 
which  our  party  soon  after  saw  from  the  island. 
Seeing  that  escape  was  now  impossible  for  him,  if 
he  were  inclined  to  try  to  flee,  he  made  a  virtue  of 
necessity,  and  changed  his  course  so  as  to  meet  the 
sailboat  as  she  came  on.  As  soon  as  he  had 
started,  a  sudden  thought  seemed  to  strike  him,  and 
using  his  paddle  with  all  his  strength,  he  made  the 
skiff  fairly  fly  as  she  went  on  to  meet  the  boat.  He 
had  caught  sight  of  the  man  at  the  tiller,  and  had 


ms  think- 

D,  Oi  what 

Should  he 

him  there 

ivas  afraid 

.     Should 

he  could 

in  how  he 

tptors  had 

valuables 

he  fairly 

as  if  ex- 

ediately. 

m,  for  the 

down  the 

I  been  all 

a  his  oar, 

1.     It  was 

e  sailboat 

he  island. 

or  him,  if 

L  virtue  of 

meet  the 

s    he   had 

him,  and 

made  the 

boat.     He 

-,  and  had 


THE  PRISONER'S  EXPERIENCE 


271 


recognized  him  at  once   as  the  man  he  feared  to 
meet,—  the  brutal   leader  of  the  smugglers,  Smith 

himself. 

The  latter  looked  up  in  great  surprise  as  the  skiff 
came  alongside  the  boat,  and  his  face  grew  black  as 
ho  recognized  the  stranger.  "  Why,  Tom,"  said  he, 
"  what  ye  doin'  here  ?  We  left  you  to  guard  the  cave. 
Ye  know  what  I  told  ye  if  anything  happened  there," 
and  he  clinched  his  fist  and  scowled,  as  he  looked 
threateningly  at  Tom. 

The  latter  was  badly  ff  ightened,  but,  putting  on  as 
bold  a  face  as  he  could,  and  trying  to  stop  his  heart 
from  beating  so  rapidly,  he  finally  managed  to  say, 
"I  was  a  comin'  down  here  to  meet  ye,  jest  as  fast 's 
I  could.  There  'a  a  gang  o'  men  at  the  cave,  and 
they  took  me  prisoner,  but  I  managed  to  get  off, 
though  I  had  to  paddle  with  one  oar." 

"A  gang  o'  men  at  the  cave!"  gasped  Smith. 
"  Who  was  they  ?    D'  ye  know  ?  " 

"No,  only  some  on  'em  was  boys.  Yes,  I  did  hear 
'em  say  somethin'  aboub  Sackett's  Harbor.  They 
either  come  from  there,  or  are  goin'  there." 

Smith's  face  grew  blacker  still.  "Was  there  an 
old  man  in  the  party  ?  One  what  wore  a  skin  cap, 
and  had  long  white  hair  and  whiskers  ?  "  he  added. 

"I  should  say  there  was,"  said  Tom,  feeling  at 
his  throat  at  the  reference  to  the  hermit.  "There 
was  another  feller  too  with  a  wooden  leg." 


m 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


"I  don't  know  him,"  said  Smith,  turning  to  his 
companions  in  the  boat.  "  But  them  other  fellers  I 
know.  It 's  the  Field  boys.  I  wish  we  'd  never 
bothered  with  'em.  I  thought  they  'd  cleared  out  a 
long  time  ago.  But  we  must  git  after  'cm.  If 
they  've  got  our  stuff,  we  can  catch  'cm  sure."  And 
taking  tne  skiff  in  tow,  he  called  to  Tom  to  come 
aboard  the  Pilot  (for  it  was  the  Pilot  he  was  sailing), 
and  at  once  began  to  give  his  attention  to  his  work, 
and  the  little  boat  went  rapidly  ahead. 

He  turned  from  time  to  time  to  his  companions,  of 
whom  there  were  now  four,  including  the  escaped 
prisoner,  and  savagely  growled  out  his  complaints. 
"I  went  and  took  my  wife  and  three  gals  off  my 
place  over  beyond  Sackett's,  and  jest  had  to  abandon 
that  farm.  They  're  in  Canady  now,  and  will  have 
ter  stay  there.  If  I  lose  my  share  in  this  deal  now, 
why  I  'm  out  of  my  place  over  there  too,  fer  I  did  n't 
have  time  to  trade  it  afore  the  war  broke  out,  and 
now  I  'm  half  'f raid  they  '11  jest  confiscate  it ;  fer 
I  'd  about  laid  my  plans  ter  git  inter  some  o'  these 
Canadian  regiments." 

His  companions  made  no  reply,  for  they  all  were 
afraid  of  him,  and,  now  that  trouble  was  ahead  for 
them  all,  they  were  silent  and  morose. 

"Yes,"  continued  Smith,  "ef  them  boys  gets 
away,  I  'm  a  goner.  I  tell  ye,"  he  added  savagely, 
"  we  've  got  ter  get  'era.     Then  there  's  them  fellers 


'  'ill!!  wiiift';^^^«!HJ^a^BHW  'MW' 


ng  to  hia 
r  fellers  I 
!  'd  never 
ired  out  a 
'cm.  If 
■e."  And 
1  to  come 
B  sailing), 
bis  work, 

anions,  of 
e  escaped 
)mplaints. 
Is  off  my 
0  abandon 
will  bave 
deal  now, 
r  I  did  n't 
}  out,  and 
ite  it;  fer 
le  o'  tbese 

y  all  were 
abead  for 

boys    gets 

savagely, 

em  fellers 


THE  PRISONER'S  EXPERIENCE 


273 


we  was  ter  meet  to-day.  Seven  on  'cm,  ye  know. 
Wbat  Ml  tbey  say  if  tbcy  find  our  stuff  gone  ?  Tiioy  '11 
say  we  lied  to  'era,  and  didn't  have  it  at  all,  and 
like  cnougb  they  '11  think  we  jest  got  'em  here  to 
catch  'em  in  a  trap.  We  '11  git  both  sides  agin  us," 
and  ho  gave  the  tiller  a  savage  jerk  as  he  brought  the 
boat  about.     "Tom,  1  b'licvc  ye  've  liod  to  me." 

*' I  wish  I  had,"  answered  Tom.  "  But  it 's  gospel 
truth.  They  most  killed  me,"  and  ho  called  their 
attention  to  the  marks  upon  his  neck. 

"What'd  they  do?  Try  ter  bang  ye?"  asked 
Smith. 

"Yes,"  said  Tom.  "Tbey  choked  me  to  make  me 
tell  where  you  was.  But  I  didn't  let  on  anything  I 
knew,  and  tbey  most  killed  me  too,"  he  added. 

"  Well,  ever  sence  we  give  up  the  Oswego  end  o' 
this  business,  and  the  Osprey  finished  her  deal,  we 
haven't  bad  luck  enough  to  float  a  chip.  But  it 
isn't  too  late  yet,"  and  Smith  glanced  at  the  sun  to 
see  the  time  of  day. 

The  party  sailed  on  up  the  river,  but  saw  no  trace 
of  the  fugitives.  They  visited  the  cave,  and  the  dis- 
covery tbey  made  there  only  added  to  Smith's  fury. 
As  tbey  came  out  of  the  gorge  he  thought  of  the 
chest,  and,  rushing  eagerly  to  the  spot,  be  made  the 
crowning  discovery  of  the  day.  His  rage  knew  no 
bounds.  He  swore  great  oaths,  and  kicked  poor 
Tom  so  savagely  that  he  could  not  have  made  any 

13 


i»!H>«MMiwmw.im<»>r 


* 


274  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 

reply  if  he  would.     But  in  a  little  while  ho  became 
cahacr,  and  the  party  resumed  their  journey. 

It  was  not  long  before  they  met  the  seven  men  who 
had  assisted  in  getting  the  hermit's  boat  off  the  rock 
on  which  it  had  struck.  These  were  not  officers, 
as  the  hermit  had  thought,  but  men  who  had  made 
an  appointment  to  meet  with  the  smugglers,  and 
arrange  a  deal  whereby  the  guns  and  ammunition 
should  be  taken  off  their  hands. 

When  they  had  related  their  story,  Smith  looked  at 
them  for  a  minute  contemptuously,  and  said,  "  You  're 
a  fmc  lot,  you  are.  Why,  those  men  you  helped  off 
that  rock  had  on  board  most  all  the  stuff  you  was 
intendin'  to  get  of  us.     You  're  a  pretty  shrewd  lot, 

you  arc." 

The  surprise  of  the  strangers  at  this  report  was 
equal  only  to  their  chagrin.  Coming  as  they  had, 
expecting  to  drive  a  sharp  bargain,  and  to  have  an 
opportunity  of  helping  on  their  own  cause  at  the 
same  time,  to  be  thus  outwitted  by  a  lot  of  Yankee 
boys  was  more  than  they  could  endure. 

"Well,  I'll  tell  you  what,"  said  one  of  them. 
"They  have  n't  got  very  far,  and  they  can't  go  very 
fast  with  all  that  load  on  board.  We  '11  all  turn  in 
and  help  catch  'em.  Why  they  were  on  the  Canada 
side  when  we  saw  'em  too.  We  can  get  them  yet. 
Just  start  right  on,  and  we  '11  go  along  too." 

The  pursuit  was  at  once  begun.     They  sailed  by 


aiin>i»iiiii'iii».iiii  iiiiiimmtii 


MHMMHHI 


!  ho  became 

ney. 

en  men  who 

uff  the  rock 

lot  ofiiccra, 

0  had  made 
gglers,  and 
ammunition 

ith  looked  at 
id,  "You're 
u  helped  off 
[uff  you  was 
shrewd  lot, 

1  report  was 
as  they  had, 

[  to  have  an 
cause  at  the 
t  of  Yankee 

»ne  of  them. 

jan't  go  very 

11  all  turn  in 

a  the  Canada 

;ct  them  yet. 

too." 

ley  sailed  by 


THE   I'RISONER'S   EXPERIENCE 


275 


the  place  where  the  hermit's  boat  had  been  fast 
aground,  but,  as  we  know,  not  a  vestige  of  their 
party  was  to  be  seen.  They  were  securely  hidden 
from  the  view  of  all  passers-by. 

"I  know  they  can't  get  away.  They  must  be 
farther  up  the  river.  Wo  don't  want  to  try  and 
follow  them,  but  to  get  ahead  of  'em  and  catch  'em 
as  they  go  by.  We  can  make  a  pretty  good  lookout," 
said  one  of  the  men. 

"That 's  the  idea,"  said  Smith,  confidence  begin- 
ning to  return  once  more.  "There's  eight  o'  our 
men  right  straight  ahead,  jest  waitin'  for  us  to  come. 
Now  wo  '11  just  use  'cm  all,  and  if  we  don't  find  the 
other  boat,  why,  I  know  we  can  outsail  her  with  all 
that  load  and  get  by  her.  Why,  there  's  six  or  seven 
o'  them  besides  all  their  freight." 

"Yes,  there  was  six  o'  the  men  and  boys,"  said 
the  other,  "for  the  most  of  'em  looked  like  boys. 
That's  what  makes  me  so  mad." 

"Well,  that  old  fellow  that  wore  a  coon's  cap  has 
got  a  coon's  head  under  his  cap.  I  know  somethin' 
about  him.  I  don't  believe  he  '11  be  any  such  fool  as 
to  run  right  into  a  trap  set  for  him.  He  won't  try  to 
make  for  Sackett's  right  off.  He  '11  more  likely 
hide  fer  a  time,  and  try  to  sneak  out  nights.  But 
we  '11  set  a  watch  fer  him,  and  1  tell  ye  if  he  can  git 
by  it,  he  's  most  welcome  to, " 

When  they  met  the   friends  of  Smith  at  their 


276 


THE  SEARCH   FOR  ANDREW  FHCLD 


appointod  place,  tlioy  were  as  cngor  as  ho  to  join 
in  the  pursuit  of  tliose  who  had  taken  tlicir  possoH- 
sions,  and  were  confident  that  the  others  could  not 
have  gone  by  them,  and  they  at  once  went  to  work 
to  arrange  a  lino  of  watchers,  and,  as  they  now  had 
fifteen  men,  this  was  easily  done. 

At  intervals,  among  the  islands,  a  man  was  sta- 
tioned, and  at  the  approach  of  any  boat,  day  or  night, 
ho  was  to  give  the  signal  agreed  upon  with  his  gun. 
Eight  of  the  men  were  placed  on  duty  at  a  time,  and 
the  others  were  to  relieve  them  at  intervals.  As 
this  gave  a  good  reserve,  and  the  day  was  divided 
into  six  parts,  the  burden  did  not  fall  heavily  on 
any  one.  Smith  himself  was  busy  day  and  night  and 
seemed  tireless  in  his  energy.  Tom,  the  ex-prisoner, 
had  been  kept  to  carry  communications  from  one 
point  to  another,  and  was  a  kind  of  nautical  errand 
boy  for  Smith. 

As  the  time  passed,  and  the  hermit's  party  did  not 
make  their  appearance,  grave  fears  began  to  be 
expressed  by  the  watchers  that  they  had  escaped 
them,  and  even  Smith  was  not  without  serious 
apprehensions  lest  this  might  be  true.  A  party  of 
three  joined  them,  and  at  their  own  suggestion 
they  took  the  Pilot  and  the  little  skifF,  and  started 
on  a  tour  through  the  islands,  while  the  others  con- 
tinued on  guard. 

The  result  of  their  expedition  we  know  already, 


THE  PHISONEU'S  EXPERIENCE  fffj 

hut  the  report  which  they  brought  when  at  last  they 
had  rowed  back  to  their  companions,  at  once  renewed 
the  hopes  of  Smith  and  his  friends. 

"Ye  see,  they  have  n't  got  away.  Now  we  '11  get 
'em  sure,  and  both  boats  too,"  said  he,  exultingly, 
and  the  courage  of  all  was  strengthened. 

But  when  three  more  days  had  passed,  and  still 
there  were  no  signs  of  the  party,  their  hopes  agnin 
began  to  fall.  On  the  morning  of  the  fourth  day, 
the  one  on  which  our  friends  had  set  sail,  Smith 
had  sent  Tom  to  call  some  of  the  watchers  to  him 
to  consult  as  to  whether  they  should  make  another 
tour  of  the  islands  or  not.  It  was  on  this  errand 
Tom  had  gone  when  he  was  seen  by  the  cook. 


278 


THE  SEARCH  FOK  ANDREW  FIELD 


CHAPTER  XXXII 


THE   VOVAUE   CONTINUED 


THE  Bight  of  their  former  prisoner  greatly  dis- 
turbed the  members  of  our  party ;  tlicy  looked 
at  one  another  in  blank  dismay,  and  only  the  hermit 
seemed  to  have  presence  of  mind  enough  for  action. 
Just  before  the  prisoner  passed  out  of  sight  around 
the  point,  he  had  called  out  to  him,  "Here,  herel 
hold  on  a  minute ;  we  want  to  speak  to  you.     We  'vo 
got  a  good  word  for  ye,  hold  on  a  bit."     But  his 
words  produced  no  effect  upon  the  fugitive,  except  to 
make  him  redouble  his  efforts  to  get  out  of  sight. 
He  had  not  even  turned  his  head  towards  them  when 
he  had  been  spoken  to,  and  it  was  but  a  very  brief 
time  before  he  disappeared  from  sight. 

The  hermit  had  grasped  his  gun,  and  seemed  half 
inclined  to  try  the  effect  of  a  shot ;  but  as  he  did  not 
wish  to  injure  the  man,  and  besides  was  fearful  of 
the  effect  of  the  sound  of  a  gun-shot  upon  others, 
whom  he  feared  might  be  near  by,  he  had  restrained 
himself,  and  laid  down  the  gun. 

"That   man    means    mischief,   I    believe,"    said 
Andrew.     "He  said  he  did  n't  waste  any  love  on 


h 


I 


-T.,  ■  ,'»n«w.ti;.!,M.»  iu.v^M--«ai'tiiMiiiiwmv'JHl<MtlUi-y>W'*yj*i)i^aaS 


atly  dis- 
y  looked 
e  hermit 
r  action. 
t  around 
■e,  here  1 
We  've 
But  his 
except  to 
of  sight, 
em  when 
fery  brief 

;med  half 

16  did  not 
fearful  of 
in  others, 
'estrained 

ve,"  said 
y  love  on 


■'IliK  iiKKMli    li\ii  i.K\-l'l.ii   III-  i.iN.'      Tai;!    27S. 


■ifr.-'i.'V  ,r  -■■  -"■•.•VF.FJ-'flV1.ff>.;&  ■ 


I   Vnlir'AlM'il    -      . . 


^ 


m 


THE  VOYAGE  CONTINUED 


279 


Smith.  Maybe  he  does  n't,  but  he  has  n't  any  to 
spare  for  us  either.  I  don't  like  the  looks  of  things 
at  all." 

"No  more  do  I,"  replied  the  hermit.  "And  fur- 
thermore, we  must  n't  stop  to  '  view  the  landscape 
o'er,'  as  the  tune-book  says.  We'll  start  right 
off." 

The  boys  responded  to  the  hermit's  call,  and  in  a 
few  minutes  they  were  ready  to  start,  the  party 
being  divided  the  same  as  before,  —  the  hermit  in 
charge  of  his  boat,  and  Andrew  at  the  tiller  of  the 
Pilot.  The  boats  were  in  excellent  sailing  form 
now,  and  with  the  ballast  thrown  overboard  from 
each,  and  the  load  divided,  there  was  no  reason  why 
they  coiild  not  make  rapid  progress.  They  were  all 
silent  for  a  time,  however,  and  Andrew's  aim  was 
to  keep  his  boat  as  near  the  other  as  it  was  possible 
for  him  to  do. 

They  all  were  anxious,  and  a  sharp  lookout  was 
kept  by  each  boat.  They  were  expecting  every 
minute  to  see  an  armed  party  set  forth  in  pursuit,  or 
else  hear  a  sharp  summons  to  surrender;  but  they 
had  sailed  steadily  on  for  twenty  minutes,  and  not  a 
sound  to  disturb  them  had  been  heard,  and  not  a 
sight  of  man  or  boat  had  been  seen. 

It  was  then  that  the  hermit  stopped  for  a  few 
minutes,  and  waited  for  Andrew  to  come  alongside 
When  the  Pilot  had  approached,  the  hermit  took  an 


280 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


axe,  and,  stsindingup,  cut  two  places  in  the  rail  about 
six  inches  deep,  forward  and  on  either  side;  hi-  then 
took  two  pieces  of  rope  and  tied  them  to  the  tiller. 
When  he  had  finished  this  work,  he  threw  the  axe 
aboard  the  Pilot,  and  called  to  Andrew  to  do  as  he 
had  done. 

"What  for?"  asked  Andrew.  "What  did  you 
cut  those  places  for  ? " 

"Well,  ye  see,"  replied  the  hermit,  "we're  likely 
to  come  to  close  quarters,  and  I  don't  want  any  one 
to  be  seen.  They  're  a  kind  of  port-holes  like,  and 
we  can  peek  out  o'  them  and  see  our  way  ahead 
without  exposing  ourselves.  Then,  too,  when  I  get 
my  bearings,  ye  see,  I  can  lie  right  on  the  bottom  o' 
the  boat,  and  yet  I  can  manage  the  tiller  after  a 
fashion,  too." 

Andrew  thought  the  advice  was  good,  and  though 
it  was  a  trial  to  him  to  strike  the  Pilot  with  an 
axe,  he,  too,  soon  had  his  boat  fixed  as  the  other  was. 
He  threw  the  axe  back  to  the  hermit  when  he  had 
cut  the  places  in  his  own  boat,  and  prepared  to  start 
on  again. 

"  Wait  a  minute,"  said  the  hermit.  "  We  did  n't 
make  any  plans  afore  we  started,  and  we  have  n't 
much  time  to  now;  but  we  haven't  seen  anybody 
yet,  and  1  hope  we  sha'n't  That  fellow  was  in  a 
row-boat,  and  with  a  fair  wind  we  ought  to  get  away 
ahead  of  any  o'  them.     But  I  think  we  'd  better  keep 


mn-i 


rail  about 
! ;  hr-  then 
tlie  tiller. 
w  the  axe 
do  as  he 

;  did  you 

're  likely 
t  any  one 

like,  and 
yay  ahead 
'hen  I  get 
bottom  o' 
T  after  a 

id  though 
t  with  an 
other  was. 
in  he  had 
;d  to  start 

Ve  did  n't 
I  have  n't 
1  anybody 
was  in  a 
>  get  away 
etter  keep 


THE  VOYAGE  CONTINUED 


281 


together,  as  near 's  we  can,  and  not  stop  when  night 
comes,  either." 

"  There  's  a  moon  to-night,  is  n't  there  ?  "  inquired 

Andrew. 

"Yes,"  said  the  hermit.  "That  is,  some,  but 
it  is  n't' full.  But  I  guess  it'll  be  light  enough  to 
see  our  way,  if  we  can  only  get  out  into  the  lake 
before  it  gets  dark.  Then  we  '11  have  a  clear  course 
and  a  square  race. " 

«  What 's  that  over  yonder  ?  "  interrupted  Henry, 
pointing  to  a  white  spot  over  towards  the  east.  They 
all  started  at  his  words,  and  looked  in  the  direction 
in  which  he  had  pointed. 

"It  looks  like  a  sail,"  said  the  hermit,  after  a 
careful  scrutiny.  "  It  does  n't  seem  to  move  any.  It 
may  be  only  a  rock,  but  it  looks  very  much  like 
a  sail  It  may  be  it 's  only  a  rock, "  he  repeated,  after 
another  careful  look;  "I  can't  jest  tell.  It  isn't  a 
movin*  any,  but  I  guess  we  'd  better  be."  And  at  his 
word  Andrew  cast  off  the  painter  of  the  Pilot,  and 
both  the  boats  were  soon  under  way  again.  The  white 
spot  in  the  distance  did  n't  appear  to  move,  and  it 
was  not  long  before  it  was  out  of  sight,  as  the  boats 
passed  behind  another  island. 

As  they  sailed  on,  and  no  interruptions  occurred, 
the  confidence  of  the  boys  began  to  return;  they 
knew  the  hardest  task  was  yet  before  them,  and  that 
the  time  of  trial  would  be  when  they  came  out  from 


iiinaiHiJ'.iniite&toBJMi 


282 


THE   SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


among  the  islands  and  started  for  the  open  lake. 
There,  if  anywhere,  their  enemies  would  meet  them. 

But  as  none  had  yet  appeared,  and  as  the  wind  held 
fair,  their  hopes  rose.  Henry  patted  the  head  of 
the  hermit's  dog,  which  was  with  them  in  their 
boat,  and  began  to  ask  questions  as  he  saw  the  her- 
mit's face  assume  a  look  of  increased  satisfaction  as 
they  sailed  on. 

"  I  just  wish, "  said  Henry,  "  we  had  a  flag  up  there 
at  the  masthead ;  it  would  look  pretty  good  to  those 
fellows  when  we  pass  by.  I  wonder  which  was  the 
first  boat  that  ever  carried  the  stars  and  stripes, 
anyway  ?  " 

It  was  a  small  war  vessel  named  the  Reprisal," 
said  the  hermit;  and  at  Henry's  look  of  interroga- 
tion, after  carefully  looking  in  every  direction,  he 
continued :  "  Ye  see,  durin'  the  Revolution,  we  were 
poorer  than  we  are  now,  though  that 's  poor  enough ; 
80  Congress  commissioned  a  lot  of  private  persons 
to  fit  out  privateers.  Sometimes  Congress  did  this, 
and  sometimes  it  was  one  o'  the  States.  In  '75, 
Congress  ordered  fourteen  war  vessels  to  be  built; 
they  were  not  very  big,  but  they  and  the  privateers 
did  a  heap  o'  damage  to  the  commerce  of  Great 
Britain." 

"  Was  the  Reprisal  a  privateer  ?  "  asked  Henry. 

"  No,  she  was  one  o'  the  fourteen ;  but  she  was  a 
good  one.     Why,  in  '77  she  and  another  one  they 


iiit>» 


jpen  lako. 
ect  them, 
wind  lield 

0  head  of 

1  in  their 
w  the  her- 
}faction  as 

g  up  there 
Mi  to  those 
;h  was  the 
d  stripes, 

Reprisal," 
interroga- 
ection,  he 
1,  we  were 
r  enough; 
te  persons 
s  did  this, 
In  '75, 

be  built; 
privateers 

of  Great 

Henry, 
she  was  a 
'  onfi  they 


THE  VOYAGE  CONTINUED 

named  the  Revenge  went  over  and  took  a  cruise 
right  among  the  British  Islands.  Why,  they  almost 
put  a  stop  to  commerce  for  a  little  while,  but  they 
quit  pretty  soon.  It  was  that  Reprisal  that  first  flew 
the  stars  and  stripes  at  her  masthead." 

"Diilu't  they  go  over  there  again  after  that?" 
asked  Elijah. 

"  Yt'8.  In  '78  there  was  a  cap'n  named  John  Paul 
Jones;  he  had  a  man  o'  war  called  the  Ranger. 
W)iy,  he  did  almost  as  much  agin  damage  as  the 
Reprisal  and  Revenge  did.  Sometimes  he  was  n't 
satisfied  to  fight  on  shipboard,  but  he  just  landed 
and  went  for  the  towns.  He  was  a  Scotchman,  too; 
but  he  was  more  American  than  Scotch,  so  he  never 
stopped  for  that.  He  landed  on  the  coast  of  Scot- 
land as  much  or  more  'u  he  did  on  the   coast  of 

England." 

"How  many  vessels  did  we  capture  from  the 
British  in  that  war?"  asked  Elijah.  "It  must  have 

been  a  lot." 

"It  was,"  replied  the  hermit.  "1  don't  s'pose 
any  one  knows  exactly,  but  T  've  heard  we  took  about 
seven  hundred." 

"Whew!"  said  Henry,  **I  guess  they  had  a  lot  of 
prize  money.  What  did  this  John  Paul  Jones  you 
were  telling  about  do  after  that?    Did  he  fight  any 

more  ? " 

"0  yes,"  replied  the  hermit.     "Ye  see,  our  navy 


284 


THE  SEARCH   FOll  ANDREW   FIELD 


was  n't  very  well  managed ;  there  was  no  head  to  the 
government  mueh  then,  anyway.  We  biiilt  some 
boats,  but  the  bigger  and  heavier  British  oner,  could 
take  'cm  or  burn  'em.  Franklin,  after  we  got  help 
from  France,  bought  some  boats  of  them.  Well," 
continued  he,  "  in  '79  he  fitted  out  a  fleet  of  five, 
and  gave  this  Paul  Jones  the  command  of  it.  Only 
one  of  'em  was  of  any  size,  and  that  was  so  old  it 
was  fairly  rotten;  they  named  her  the  'Bonhomme 
Richard.'  Ye  see,  Franklin  used  to  be  a  printer  in 
Philadelphia,  and  he  'd  got  up  an  almanac  which  he 
called  'Poor  Richard's  Almanac'  So  they  took  that 
name  for  this  boat,  'Goodman  Richard.'" 

"  Where  did  this  Paul  Jones  go  to  fight  ?  "  asked 
Henry. 

"  0,  he  went  over  to  the  east  coast  of  Scotland  and 
England  again.  He  had  lots  o'  trouble  with  his  men, 
and  more  with  his  captains.  They  wasn't  any  o' 
them  used  to  doin'  anything  they  didn't  want  to. 
Well,  he  cruised  round  there  for  a  month  or  two, 
and  then,  in  September,  '79,  his  fleet  fell  in  with  two 
British  frigates.  One  on  'em  was  called  the  Serapia, 
and  she  carried  forty  guns,  and  the  other  was  named 
the  Countess  of  Scarborough,  and  had  twenty-two 
guns.  It  was  o£f  Flamborough  Head  they  met,  and 
they  had  one  of  the  toughest  sea  fights  that  ever  was 
heard  of,  T  s'pose."> 

"  How  'd  it  come  out  ?  "  asked  Henry. 


head  to  the 
built  Roine 
oner,  could 
re  got  help 
u.  Well," 
cet  of  five, 
f  it.  Only 
is  so  old  it 
Bouhomme 
a  printer  in 
ic  which  he 
ey  took  that 

it?"  asked 

cotland  and 
th  his  men, 
J  n't  any  o' 
't  want  to. 
ith  or  two, 
in  with  two 
;he  Serapia, 
was  named 
twenty-two 
ij  met,  and 
at  ever  was 


THE  VOYAGE  CONTINUED 


m 


«0,  Jones,  after  a  little  while,  got  the  nonhommc 
Richard  and  Serapis  tied  together.  They  fought 
for  two  hours,  and  I  s'pose  the  slaughter  was  some- 
thing fearful.  Both  boats  got  on  fire  a  number  of 
times,  but  at  last  the  Serapis  surrendered.  But  the 
Richard  was  so  used  up,   that  ne.xt  morning  she 

sank." 

'* What  became  of  the  other  boat?"  said  Elijah. 
"I  think  you  said  her  name  was  the  Countess  of 
Scarborough. " 

"0,  well,  ye  sec,  the  rest  o'  Jones's  fleet  didn't 
help  him  much;  ho  had  to  fight  the  Serapis  all 
single-handed  like.  But  the  other  vessels  finally  did 
pitch  into  the  Countess  of  Scarborough,  and  at  last 
they  took  her." 

"That  was  a  great  fight,"  said  Henry,  excitedly. 
"  What  ever  became  of  this  John  Paul  Jones  ?  " 

"0,  afterwards  he  entered  the  Russian  navy.  I 
never  heard  much  of  him  after  that,  except  that  he 
died  in  poverty  and  neglect." 

"  What  a  shame ! "  said  Elijah.  "  But  then  that 's 
not  the  meanest  thing  our  country  ever  did ;  they  'd 
fight  to  get  free,  but  they  did  n't  take  care  of  their 
men  after  they  were  free.  Just  look  at  this  scrape 
of  Andrew's." 

"That's  what's  goin'  to  be  settled  in  this  war. 
We've  got  to  learn  to  hold  up  our  own  heads;  we 
always  was  afraid  o'  big  foreign  names.     Just  look 


286  TIIK  SEAHCn  FOR  ANDREW   FIELD 

at  the  French.  Why,  all  they  did  pretty  much  was 
to  Bct  UB  on  in  our  war  with  EngUind.  They  did  n't 
nice  England,  and  was  glad  of  anything  that  would 
give  her  trouble.  Do  Oraftse  did  give  ub  a  good  deal 
o'  help  when  we  took  Cornwallis,  but  that's  'bout 

all  they  did." 

"That's  the  island  and  the  place  where  we  lost 
the  Pilot,"  said  Henry,  pointing  to  the  shore  by 
which  they  were  passing.  "I'd  like  to  have  some 
of  'em  see  us  now,—  just  see  us,  that 's  all,  as  we  go 

sailing  by." 

"I'm  afraid   you'll   have  «i  chance  to  be  seen, 
then,"  said  the  hermit,  as  ha  pointed  to  a  sailboat 
just  putting  out  from  a  little  cove.     He  had  hardly 
uttered  the  word,  before  there  was  a  puff  of  smoke 
Bcen  where  the  boat  was,  and  a  sharp  report  rang 
out.     In  a  moment  this  was  followed   by  another, 
and  another,  till  they  counted  eight  shots.     "  We  're 
in  for  it  no'-,"  sa-r^  the  hermit,  pointing  to  two  more 
sailboatP   that  now  came  in  sight,— one  from  the 
east,  aid  one  from  the  west.     "If  the  wind  holds 
good,  L  'm  not  much  afraid.     Give  Andrew  and  his 
crew  a  cheer,"  and  a  shout  rose  from  the  hermit's 
boa'^  which  was  quickly  answered  from  the  Pilot 


ELD 

tty  much  was 

They  did  n't 

g  that  would 

18  a  good  deal 

that '8  'bout 

«rhcre  we  lost 
the  shore  by 
to  have  some 
I  all,  as  we  go 

!  to  be  seen, 
to  a  sailboat 
le  had  hardly 
puff  of  smoke 
p  report  rang 
i  by  another, 
[Ots.  "  We  're 
ig  to  two  more 
one  from  the 
le  wind  holds 
ftdrew  and  his 
1  the  hermit's 
u  the  Pilot 


AH  EXCITING   UACE 


287 


CHAPTER    XXXIU 


AN   EXCITING   RACE 


'  I  ^HR  sight  of  three  sailboats  in  hot  pursuit  pro- 

-*■  ducod  a  keen  excitement  among  our  friends, 
who  wore  trying  to  escape.  The  hermit  was  cool 
and  collected,  but  the  white  face  of  Henry,  and  his 
trembling  voice,  showed  how  frightened  he  was. 
Elijah  however  had  nothing  to  say,  and  stood  ready 
to  follow  out  the  slightest  suggestion  the  hermit 
might  make. 

For  a  few  minutes  they  sailed  on  in  silence,  but 
the  tears  that  were  in  Henry's  eyes  finally  led  the 
hermit  to  say,  "Now,  Henry,  we  have  come  to  the 
real  tug.  You  must  try  to  show  yourself  a  man. 
It  does  n't  take  much  courage  to  keep  a  stout  heart 
when  everything  goes  smoothly,  but  it 's  when  the 
real  test  comes  that  a  man  shows  himself." 

"I  know  it,"  said  Henry,  "and  I  '11  try  to  be  as 
brave  as  I  can." 

"That's  right,"  responded  the  hermit.  "Now  I 
want  you  all  to  keep  your  heads  below  the  rail. 
They  ain't  more  than  four  hundred  yards  away,  and 
I  'm  afraid,  if  they  don't  overhaul  us  pretty  quick, 


\ 


■hmHIK 


288  THE  SEAllCIl  FOB  ANllUEW   IIEI.K 

they'll   try  a  -hot,  ami  wo  M  1,-ttcr  W  rt.TO  they 
e„  .-t  -oe  much  o"  ■,.."     And  ealllnK  o,.t  to  A.,arow 
Thavo  Im   party  tollo.  In.  .■x,„u|,l,.    the  hor,m 
W,„.eltdro,,H  out  of  .iKl...  and  uU  the  other.  d.a     ^ 

""tLouX*;  hole,  he  had  cut,  EUjah  and  Henry 
kept  a. harp  lookout  ahead,  and  the  hermit  .teered    , 
h  .  boat  by  mean,  of  the  ro,..  he  had  t.ed  to  the 
tmer.     In  thi.  way  they  .ailed  on  for  hall  an  hour, 
without  a  word  iMing  .poken  by  any  one 

Tl,e  hermit  then  rai.ed  him.elf  a  little  to  ge  . 
,„„d  look  at  their  pur.uer..  The  .IbM  he  .aw  d.d 
Tot  re...ure  him,  for  he  turned  to  hi.  eompan.on. 
^d^id,  "Theyre^aininsonu..  They 're  atlea,ta 
hundred  yard,  nearer  than  they  were  before  If  he 
wind  hold,  good,  and  we  can  only  get  out  into  the 
Take  before  they  can  overhaul  ua,  1  think  we  stand  a 
pretty  fair  chance  o'  leavin'  'em  bchmd. 

A  .hout  hero  aroac  from  their  pu.-.uer.,  but  a.  the 
hermit  quickly  cautioned  the  other,  to  remam  eon- 
ce     d  no  reply  wa.  given.     But  when  the  amuggler. 
;t!;ed  th'at'their  call,  received  -o -P™'";  *«?, 
Led  three  .hot.  at  the  Hying  boat..        Look  at  that^^ 
'Id  the  hermit  quickly,  pointing  to  two  hole,  the 
"met.  had  cut  in  their  .ail.     "1  don't  l«l>eve  we 
„nt  to  .tand  on  deck  very  much.     H- '"»'■' 
Lid  get  dark,  and  we  could  only  get  out  .nto  the 

lake!" 


uMi«iMili*l*:'#" 


wluMO  they 

b  to  Andrew 

the   hermit 

0  others  dill 

I 

1  and  Henry 
rniit  steered 
i  tied  to  the 
ml£  an  hour, 
e. 

ittle  to  get  a 
it  he  saw  did 
H  companions 
y 're  at  least  a 
lefore.  If  the 
;  out  into  the 
nk  we  stand  a 

d." 

er»,  but  as  the 

to  remain  con- 

the  smugglers 

response,  they 

'Look  at  that," 

( two  holes  the 

jn't  believe  wo 

How  1  wish  it 

rot  put  into  the 


AN   FA'CITINC.   HACK 


280 


The  hermit's  dn^',  which  luul  been  a  very  quiet 
and  docile  uuMuber  of  llio  party  up  <<)  thiK  time,  mid 
liad  obeyed  every  word  of  his  master,  here  suddenly 
leaped  out  on  deck,  and  liegan  to  bark  furiously  at 
the  pursuing  Ixtats.  Before  the  hermit  could  speak 
sharply  to  him,  and  order  him  back  by  his  side, 
another  shot  came  from  the  boat  nearest  them,  and 
it  was  answered  i>y  a  sharp  yelp  from  the  dog. 

"He's  hit  hard,"  said  the  hermit,  as  the  dog 
crawled  towards  him.  "Take  your  knife,"  said  ho 
to  Elijah,  "and  put  him  out  o'  his  misery." 

Elijah  did  as  he  was  direeted,  and  in  a  moment 
threw  the  body  overboard.  "Poor  Bony!"  said  the 
hermit.  "  Ye  sec,  he  was  named  for  Napoleon  liona- 
parte.  I  always  called  him  Bony  for  short.  He  's 
been  a  good  dog,  but  he  's  found  out  what  it  means 
to  be  careless  like,  and  not  obey  orders  when  he  's 
runnin'  a  blockade." 

He  here  took  another  look  at  their  enemies,  but 
the  mere  showing  of  his  head  brought  a  shot  from 
them,  which  buried  itself  in  the  boat's  side.  "I 
guess  they  're  a  little  perticular  about  bein'  watched," 
said  he,  with  a  smile.  "But  they  're  gainin'  on  us. 
The  most  1  fear  is  from  that  boat  over  to  the  west. 
Ye  see,  we  've  got  to  turn  that  way  when  we  get  into 
the  lake,  and  they  're  steerin'  straight  ahead.  That 
means  they  're  a  goin'  to  try  and  cut  us  off  afore 
we  can  get  out  into  the  open  water.  —  What 's  that 

18 


290 


THE   SKAKCII   FOR   ANDUEVV    FII<:LD 


they  're  a  saj  in'  ? "  said  he,  sharply,  as  a  shout  arose 
from  the  boat  directly  behind  them. 

"They  're  callin'  out  to  us  to  lay  by,  and  give  'em 
the  cargo,  and  they  '11  let  us  go  on  without  touchin' 
us,"  said  Henry. 

The  hermit  smiled,  and  said,  "I  guess  not.  I 
don't  take  kindly  to  any  scch  offers  from  them. 
We  '11  stand  jest  as  good  a  chance  to  keep  right  on, 
'specially  as  I  believe,  "pon  my  soul,  the  wind  's  a 
comin'  up,"  he  added,  as  a  fresh  gust  struck  their 
sail.  "I  guess  I'll  take  another  peep  at  that 
boat  over  to  the  west.  That 's  the  one  I  'm  most 
afcard  of." 

The  sight  he  saw  evidently  interested  him,  for  he 
kept  his  head  above  the  rail  so  long  that  a  shot  from 
the  boat  directly  behind  only  served  at  last  to  make 
him  take  his  place  again.  "Thank  ye,"  he  said. 
"  Ye  've  some  good  shots,  but  two  inches 's  as  good  's 
a  whole  lake  here.  That  boat  over  there  has  broken 
something.  I  could  n't  jest  make  o>it  what.  They  've 
dropped  away  behind,  and  all  tlie  men  are  in  the 
stern  a  lookin'  at  something.  It 's  way  back  of  the 
wholo  fleet  now,  and  the  other  boats  haven't  been 
gainin'  any  on  us  for  the  last  twenty  minutes." 

"Did  you  get  a  good  look  at  the  Pilot?"  asked 
Henry.     "  I  wonder  how  they  're  a  making  out  in 

her." 

"  0,  the  Pilot 's  gained  on  'cm.     She  's  right  up 


■■■"'■5" 


nout  arose 

1  give  'em 
t  touchin' 

IS  not.  I 
om  them, 
right  on, 
wind  's  a 
'uck  their 
p  at  that 
I  'm  most 

lim,  for  he 

shot  from 

st  to  make 

'  he  said. 

as  good  's 

lias  broken 

They  've 

are  in  the 

ack  of  the 

ve  n  't  been 

ites." 

it?"  asked 
ing  out  in 

's  right  up 


AN  EXCITING  RACE 


291 


with  us  now.    You  could  almost  talk  with  Andrew  if 
you  wanted  to." 

Henry  acted  upon  the  suggestion  at  once,  and 
called  out  to  the  boys.  A  "Hurrah!"  and  "All 
right!"  came  back  to  him.  "They're  all  right," 
said  Henry,  more  cheerfully,  "and  if  one  boat's 
given  out,  and  the  others  ain't  gainin'  any,  I  don't 
see  why  we  can't  get  away  from  'em. " 

"  If  this  wind  keeps  up,  we  're  all  right,"  responded 
the  hermit,  "and  from  the  looks  o'  things,  I  think 
we  're  goin'  to  get  some  rain.  That 's  what  we  want. 
I  don't  care  if  it  blows  great  guns,  for  with  our 
boats  and  the  load  we  've  got  we  can  stand  a  heavy 
sea  first  rate. " 

Conversation  then  ceased  for  a  time,  and  the  boats 
flew  on.  From  time  to  time  the  hermit  raised  his 
head,  and  took  a  look  at  their  enemies,  and  reported 
slight  gains,  or  else  that  they  were  about  the  same 
as  they  had  been.  Elijah,  from  his  lookout,  re- 
ported that  he  was  sure  he  could  see  the  waters  of  the 
open  lake  not  more  than  two  miles  ahead. 

The  wind  was  now  rising,  and  the  sun  had  almost 
set.  There  was  a  look  of  confidence  and  determina- 
tion in  the  hermit's  face  that  served  to  reassure 
Henry,  and  they  all  began  to  pluck  up  courage. 

"There  comes  your  rain,"  said  Elijah,  as  a  few 
spatters  fell  upon  his  face.  "That's  what  you've 
been  a-wishing  and  praying  for. " 


i 


' ;' 


292  THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 

"That  '8  what  I  want,"  said  the  hermit,  as  he  roae 
to  take  another  survey  of  the  river.     A  shout  and 
shot  from  behind  greeted  his  appearance,  and  as  he 
dodged  baek  he  said,  "In  a  few  minutes,  Mr.  Smug- 
der,  ye  can't  tell  my  head  from  the  water.     The 
Pilot '8  gone  ahead  0' us.     She 's  a  good  sailer.     But 
1  'm  afcard  those  fellows  straight  behind  are  gamin 
a  little.     My  boat's  a  good  one  in  a  rough  sea,- 
better  'n  theirs,  1  suspect,-  -  and  if  we  only  can  keep 
'c,«  off  till  we  get  into  the  lake,  1  'II  landje  sate 
and  sound  at  Sackctt's  Harbor  pretty  quick. 

But  the  race  continued.  The  wind  was  now  blow- 
ing much  harder,  and  they  could  see  the  white  caps 
up  ahead  in  the  waters  of  the  open  lake.  The  few 
drops  of  rain  had  increased,  and  now  there  was  a 
steady  downpour.  They  all  wrapped  themselves  m 
blankets,  and  sat  in  silence  waiting  for  the  issue  of 
the  exciting  chase.  The  darkness  was  fast  coming 
on,  and  the  .  ight  gave  promise  of  being  a  stormy 

"""It 's  just  the  kind  of  a  night  to  do  what  we  're 
trying  to.  1  wish  that  pesky  boat  behind  us  would 
break' somethin'.  Whoever 's  a  «f  »^'  ^l-  -f^ 
stands  his  business.  1  guess  they  're  geitin  a  little 
desperate  like,"  he  added,  as  more  shouts  arose,  and 
several  shots  were  fired.  "But  we're  most  out  in 
the  lake  now.  It  can't  be  more'n  a  quarter  of  a 
mile  away,can  it?"  he  asked  Elijah. 


I 


AN   EXCITING   RACE 


293 


J  he  roae 

lout  and 

ind  as  he 

r.  Smug- 

er.     The 

er.     But 

e  gainin' 

jh  sea, — 

can  keep 

d  ye  safe 
>» 

low  blow- 
rhite  caps 
The  few 
ere  was  a 
nselves  in 
[le  issue  of 
ist  coining 
;  a  stormy 

hat  we  're 
[  us  would 
her  under- 
tin'  a  little 
,  arose,  and 
lost  out  in 
jarter  of  a 


"  '0,  I  know,  I  know  all  about  it,'  as  the  cook 
says,"  responded  Elijah,  gleefully.  "We're  right 
there.  At  least  we  will  be  in  ten  minutes.  If  they 
catch  us,  they  '11  have  to  hurry  up  about  it.  Least- 
wise they  will  if  you  feel  as  sure  o'  yourself  in  the 
open  water  as  you  say  you  do. " 

"I  know  we  '11  sail  better  than  they  can  in  such  a 
niffht  as  this  on  the  lake.  I  've  looked  their  boats 
over,  and  I  'm  sure  o'  that,  though  I  'm  not  quite  so 
certain  about  the  Pilot  as  I  'm  o'  this  boat  we  're 
in." 

The  hermit  took  another  look,  and  reported  that, 
in  the  darkness  which  now  was  fast  settling  down, 
he  could  see  the  Pilot  a  little  in  advance  of  them, 
but  he  could  also  see  that  their  pursuers  were  as  near 
as  ever  behind  them. 

"Keep  a  sharp  lookout  on  the  Pilot,"  said  the 
hermit  to  the  boys.  "I  don't  believe  they  could 
hear  us  in  this  rain,  and  I  don't  just  know  what 's 
best  to  be  done.  I  'm  inclined  to  think  we  'd  better 
keep  right  out  towards  the  open  water  for  a  good 
ways.  Mebbe  we  can  throw  these  fellow  .  off  a  little 
in  that  rough  water. " 

"No,  the  Pilot's  headed  westward,"  said  Elijah, 
as  they  reached  the  lake.  "I  guess  Andrew's  home- 
sick, or  mebbe  he  thinks  those  fellows  would  sail 
right  on  towards  Sackett's  Harbor,  and  wait  there 
for  us." 


Jbk 


294  THE  SEARCH   FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 

"Well  1  g"C8S  it  '8  all  right,"  responded  the  her- 
,nit.  as  he  glanced  at  the  boat  behind  which  he 
could  still  dimly  see  in  the  darkness.  But  they  le 
a  sailin'  a  good  deal  better  'n  1  thought  they  could  in 
such  water's  this." 

The  wind  was  now  blowing  hard.     The  water  was 
rou-vh,  and   frequently  the  waves   dashed   over  the 
boat      With  great  difficulty  they  took  a  reet  in  the 
sail,  but  they  dared  not  try  to  go  ashore,  as  none  of 
them  was  acquainted  with  the  locality,  and  besides 
they  preferred  to  trust  their  chances  on  the  water. 
Another  reef  was  taken,  and  it  was  almost  under 
bare  poles  that  they  sped  onwards.     But  the  wind 
was  with  them,  and  drove  them  on  swifter  and  faster 
They  could  see  nothing  of  the  pursuing  boats,  and 
not  a  sign  of  the  Pilot  appeared. 

It  was  past  midnight  before  the  storm  abated, 
and  then  a  thick,  damp  fog  set  in.  There  was 
little  wind  to  aid  thein,  and  the  water  continued 
rou-h  and  boisterous.  Elijah  and  Henry  took  turns 
at  rowing,  each  keeping  a  sharp  lookout  for  rocks 
or  islands  ahead,  when  not  so  engaged. 

But  no  accident  befell  them  during  the  night,  and 
they  worked  steadily  on,  eagerly  waiting  for  the 
morning.  With  the  first  faint  streaks  ot  ight  they 
looked  out  over  the  lake  for  friends  and  foes.  Bu 
not  a  trace  of  the  smugglers'  boats  or  of  the  Pilot 
could  be  seen. 


Jiiii  I      'i  -r-"-"^-^ 


MMlllHII'lrT-""  '       ^  r-iinii.yiiMM^t»IMMafiy'(||( 


the  her- 
hich  be 
they  're 
could  in 

ater  was 
3ver  the 
)i  in  the 
i  none  of 

I  besides 
lie  water, 
st  under 
the  wind 
nd  faster, 
oats,  and 

II  abated, 
'here  was 
continued 
took  turns 

for  rocks 

night,  and 
[ig  for  the 
light  they 
foes.  But 
;  the  Pilot 


AN  EXCITING  RACE 


295 


"I  'm  afraid  somethin'  's  happened  to  the  Pilot," 
said  Elijah,  gravely. 

The  hermit  made  no  reply,  except  to  give  his 
careful  attention  to  the  boat.  They  were  about  three 
miles  from  shore,  and  the  morning  breeze  now  swept 
them  on.  The  fog  was  gone,  and  the  waters  soon 
became  calmer.  It  was  nearly  noon  before  they 
sighted  Sackett's  Harbor.  "We  hadn't  bettor  put 
in  to  the  Harbor,"  said  Henry.  "We'll  go  about 
two  miles  this  side,  and  land  where  we  keep  the 
Pilot.  I  wish  I  knew  where  she  was.  But  Andrew 
Field  's  as  good  a  sailor  as  there  is  on  the  lake,  and 
1  guess  she  's  all  right." 

In  less  than  an  hour  they  came  in  sight  of  their 
landing  place,  and  the  first  thing  they  beheld  was 
the  Pilot  alongside  the  little  dock,  and  the  cook 
waving  his  hat,  and  beckoning  to  them  from  her 
deck. 


I 


I 


[ 


296 


THE  SEARCH  FOR  ANDREW  l-'IELL) 


CHAPTER   XXXIV 


A    SAD   nOME-COMINO 

THE  hermit's  boat  5(oon  took  her  place  along 
with  the  Pilot  and  her  crew  were  listening 
with  interest  to  the  cook's  story.  It  seems  that,  soon 
after  darkness  had  come  on  the  preceding  night, 
Andrew's  party  had  lost  all  sight  of  the  hermit's 
boat,  and  also  of  their  pursuers;  but  being  rea- 
sonably sure  of  their  course,  they  had  kept  on. 
They  had  taken  reefs  in  their  sail,  and  had  been  in 
great  fear  lest  the  Pilot  should  spring  a  leak  in  the 
strain  she  was  having,  for  they  knew  she  had  been 
only  patched  up  since  Smith  had  cut  the  holes  in  her 

bottom. 

But  they  had  come  on  safely,  and  had  arrived  at 
the  dock  only  about  half  an  hour  before  the  hermit 
came.  "  We  saw  a  sail  out  here,"  said  Henry,  "and 
we  hoped  it  was  you,  but  we  were  not  certain.  But 
it's  all  right  now." 

"Andrew  and  David  just  cleared  out  as  soon  's  we 
got  here,"  said  the  cook,  "they  were  so  anxious  to 
get  home.    I  told  'era  to  go  on,  and  I  'd  stay  here  on 


itDtmmmmmim 


,ce  along 
listening 
;hat,  soon 
ig  night, 
hermit's 
jing  rea- 
kept  on. 
i  been  in 
ak  in  the 
had  been 
les  in  her 

trrived  at 
le  hermit 
nry,  "and 
ain.     But 

joon  's  we 
mxious  to 
ly  here  on 


A  SAD   HOME-COMING 


297 


guard  till  you  came,  for  we  knew  you  when  you  were 
away  back  yonder." 

"  Now  you  boys  just  all  go  home  and  see  yor 
folks,"  said  the  hermit.  "The  cook  and  1  '11  stand 
guard  here;  and  by  and  by  you  come  back,  and 
we  Ml  decide  what 's  best  to  be  done.  Come,  clear 
out  now !    Off  with  ye !  " 

The  boys  needed  no  second  bidding,  but  started 
on  the  run.  It  w^s  less  than  two  miles  to  the  home 
of  Andrew  and  David,  and  they  must  pass  by  that 
to  go  to  their  own.  As  they  approached  they  saw  a 
gathering  of  people  in  a  lot  not  far  from  the  house. 

"Henry,  there's  somebody  being  buried  there," 
said  Elijah,  excitedly. 

"It  does  look  so,"  said  Henry.     "I  wonder  who  it 

can  be  ? " 

But  by  this  time  they  had  come  near  enough  to 
see  the  sad  procession  turning  to  leave  the  lot  in 
which  they  had  been  standing. 

It  was  a  sad  picture  which  the  boys  saw.  In 
advance  was  the  old  minister,  his  head  bared,  and 
the  few  long  gray  locks  he  had  left  were  blowing  in 
the  warm  wind  of  the  summer's  day.  Beside  him 
walked  David,  whose  grief  seemed  uncontrolled. 
Behind  them  walked  Andrew  and  his  mother,  — 
Andrew  quiet  and  calm,  and  trying  hard  to  sup- 
port her  in  her  sorrow.  The  few  friends  and 
neighbors  which  the  sparsely  settled  country  gave 


T 


5 


BBS 


r* 


298 


THK  SKAUCII   KOU    ANDKEW   FIELD 


were  there,  all  walking  behind  tlio  members  of  the 
fiiinily.  Among  the  first  of  these  Elijah  recognized 
his  own  father  and  mother,  but  the  customs  of 
the  day  forbade  more  than  a  smile  of  recognition, 
and  a  slight  motion  with  the  hand  to  indicate  to  the 
boys  that  they  were  to  follow  in  the  rear  of  the  litth; 
procession,  as  it  turned  towards  Andrew's  honie. 
Tiic  boys  quietly  took  their  places  behind  the  others, 
and  walked  with  slow  and  solemn  steps  towards  the 
home  which  no  more  should  know  the  kind-hearted 
and  suffering  man  whose  body  they  had  just  laid  to 
rest  in  the  little  field,  set  off  from  the  others  by  a 
new  fence. 

When  all  had  entered  the  house,  the  aged  minis- 
ter, after  he  had  read  a  chapter  from  the  Bible, 
called  upon  all  to  kneel,  and  then  he  closed  the  sad 
services  by  a  prayer  that  was  both  long  and  fervent. 

When  tfiey  rose  from  their  kneeling  position,  the 
women  went  at  once  to  the  kitchen  to  prepare  the  meal 
which  always  at  that  tira.!  followed  the  service  for 
the  dead.     The  men  and  boys  were  left  alone. 

Elijah  and  Henry  hardly  knew  what  to  say  or  do. 
Their  hearts  went  out  to  their  friends  in  their  grief, 
but  they  could  find  no  words,  and  for  some  time 
there  was  an  awkward  silence. 

Finally  Henrj-,  moving  quietly,  came  to  where 
David  was  sitting,  and  drew  his  hand  within  his 
own.     David  was  the  first  to  speak. 


•«»• 


ir\ 


A  SAD  HOME-COMING 


209 


"It  '8  a  pretty  sad  homp-coiniiip  after  all,  TTcnry," 
said  he.  "We  lia.l  ii't  but  jimt  jiot  to  tlic  toj)  of  t'le 
hill  when  we  saw  them  a  coming.  I  didn't  know 
just  what  it  was,  till  I  heard  Andrew  ory  right  out 
loud,  and  then  I  knew.  We  ran  as  fast  as  we  could, 
and  met  them  just  as  they  were  going  into  the  bury- 
ing-ground.     IJut  1  'm  glad  you  got  hon>e  all  safe." 

"Yes,  do  you  know,  and  father  kissed  me,"  said 
Ilenrv.  "  Why,  1  never  knew  him  to  do  such  a  thing 
as  that  before  in  my  life." 

"But  I'm  glad  you've  got  a  father,"  replied 
David.  "Mine  's  gone.  And  to  think  how  wc  only 
got  home  to  be  just  in  time  to  help  put  him  in  the 
ground.  They  were  just  starting  out  for  the  bury- 
ing-gronnd  as  wc  came  in  sight  of  the  house.  But 
I'm  glad  we  could  help  mother.  Poor  mother!" 
And  at  the  words  the  tears  came  again  into  David's 
eyes,  and  he  covered  his  face  with  his  hanSs. 

Henry  could  think  of  nothing  more  to  say  to  com- 
fort his  friend,  and  so  he  sat  in  silence  by  his  side. 
It  was  a  sad  and  still  company.  The  old  minister 
was  the  only  one  who  spoke  at  all,  and  he  only  at 

intervals. 

They  were  all  summoned  to  the  other  room  in  a 
few  minutes,  and  the  meal  was  eaten  in  silence.  No 
one  felt  like  talking,  and  the  loving  glances  the 
mother  of  Elijah  and  Henry  cast  from  time  to  time 
upon  her  boys,  were  all  the  language  used.     When 


% 


1 


M  Hll'liiWi)»iiiM»'niMII)I.Ji.aii)il'"!ii 


300 


TIIK  SEARCH   FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 


tlio  moal  wns  fmisliofl,  thoy  nil  cnmo  Imrk  into  the 
living-room,  and  the  good  old  proaohor  look  the 
Rilde  and  again  read  a  long  chn{)tcr  and  mado  a 
fervent  prayer.  The  liymn  which  David  had  heard 
as  he  approached  his  home  on  the  day  of  Andrew's 
seizure  was  sung: 

"  On  the  other  side  of  Jordan,  in  the  sweet  fields  of  Eden, 
Where  tl»e  tree  of  life  is  blooming,  there  is  rest  for  you." 

The  hymn  was  the  last  of  the  sad  services  of  the 
day,  and  the  company  prepared  to  depart.  Andrew 
took  his  weeping  mother  to  her  room,  and  there 
stayed  with  her,  while  Elijah  and  Henry,  with  their 
father  and  mother,  were  all  who  remained  to  help 
in  the  duties  of  the  household. 

Seated  in  the  room  together,  there  was  silence 
for  a  time,  until  David  said,  "Elder  Dodd,  I  wish 
you  'd  tell  me  about  father." 

"There  isn't  very  much  to  tell,"  said  the  old 
man.  "He  seemed  to  become  weaker  and  weaker 
every  day.  He  did  n't  talk  very  much,  but  when  he 
did  it  was  about  his  boys.  He  thought  he  never 
should  see  Andrew  again,  and  he  was  in  fear  all  the 
time  that  you  would  get  into  the  enemy's  clutches. 
I  suppose  you  know  that  war 's  been  declared  since 
you  went  away  ?  " 

"Yes,"  replied  David.  "We  heard  of  it  down  the 
river. " 


A   SAD  IIOMK-COMINO 


301 


"Well,"  resumed  tho  prenclw'r,  "ubout  a  week  nfi:o 
a  fever  set  in  with  your  father;  he  was  otit  of  his 
head,  and  his  face  looked  as  if  it  was  on  lire.  Tho 
doctor  came  and  bled  him.  Yes,  he  Ijled  him  three 
times,  l)ut  it  did  n't  seem  to  do  any  good.  He  kept 
getting  weaker  and  weaker;  an<l  three  days  ago  ho 
just  went  to  sleep,  and  did  n't  wake  up  again.  Wo 
didn't  want  to  have  the  funeral  till  you  came  home 
if  wo  could  help  it,  so  we  waited  just  as  long  as  we 
could.  Finally,  we  couldn't  wait  any  longer;  and 
then,  as  you  know,  we  had  just  started  for  the  bury- 
ing-ground  when  you  came.  I  think  your  coming  hag 
done  your  mother  great  good,  for  I  don't  know  what 
would  have  become  of  her  if  you  boys  had  not  got 
back  home  pretty  soon  after  her  other  trouble. 

"But  you  must  have  had  some  strange  experi- 
ences," continued  he.  "You  have  been  gone  so 
long.  We  were  all  afraid  you  would  n't  come  back 
at  all.  Elijah,  can't  you  tell  us  something  about 
your  trip?"  he  said,  as  David  arose  and  left  the 
room  to  go  to  his  mother. 

Elijah,  thus  addressed,  began  an  account  of  their 
journey.  His  story  lost  nothing  in  its  interest,  as 
the  boy,  excited  at  the  memory  of  what  he  had  been 
through,  graphically  told  of  all  their  adventures. 

"  Then  these  two  men  —  Mr.  Ogden  and  tho  other 
man  — what  did  you  say  his  name  was?"  asked  Mr. 
Spicer,  waiting  for  a  reply. 


niin III >'i i>i :    >i'i'« 


mmmMtimmum 


302 


TIIK  HKAllCII   FOR  ANDIIKW   I'lKLU 


"\VV  never  knew  h'lH  name,"  Hiiid  Klijiih.  "Wc 
ftlways  railed  him  the  cook.  But  he  'h  an  oUl  sailor, 
and  lined  to  live  down  in  Rhode  Island." 

"Did  you  Huy,"  continued  Mr.  Spieer,  "thatthcBC 
men  are  down  hy  the  dock  now,  and  luive  all  thia  stuff 
you  hrought  with  you  in  the  hoats  there  ?  " 

"Yes,"  said  Elijah.  "They  were  going  to  wait 
for  UH  to  come  hack.  I  guess  they  Ml  think  wc  've 
kept  them  waiting  a  good  while." 

"Well,  we'd  better  go  right  down  there,  then, 
now,"  said  Mr.  Spicer.  "Elder  Dodd  can  look  after 
things  here  a  little;  and  Henry,  I  guess  you  can  do 
the  chores  to-night  over  at  our  house,  and  Elijah  and 
1  '11  go  down  to  the  dock,  and  see  what 's  best  to  do 
with  your  boats  and  the  men." 

His  suggestion  was  at  once  acted  upon,  and  while 
Henry  started  for  home,  Elijah  and  his  father  set 
out  on  horseback  for  the  dock.  They  found  the  men 
waiting  there,  and  becoming  somewhat  impatient 
at  the  long  delay.  But  after  Elijah  had  introduced 
his  father  to  them,  he  told  briefly  the  experience 
that  Andrew  and  David  had  had  since  their  re- 
turn. The  hermit  was  full  of  sympathy  at  once, 
and  the  cook  began  to  murmur,  "  Yes,  yes,  I  know, 
I  know  all  about  it." 

"We  never  can  thank  you  enough,  I  am  sure," 
said  Mr.  Spicer,  "for  keeping  our  boys  out  of  this 
terribl'i  trouble." 


A   SAD   lloMK.-COMINd 


•My.\ 


"0  wo  worn  f?la<l  to  do  wliiit  wo  (miiM,"  naid  llio 
luMiuit.  "Tlioy  'ro  likoly  yi.mi^'rtt.Ts,  aiul  you  'vo  a 
right  to  ho  proud  of  thoni.  They  'vo  fint  good  HtulT 
ill  'cui,  und  wo  was  ghid  to  (h)  wluit  wo  did.  Bo- 
Hi(h'S,  tlioy'vc  got  ns  out  of  lrouhh\  too,"  and  ho 
hriolly  told  of  tiic  hurniug  of  his  home,  and  tho 
danger  thorc  was  ah)ng  tlio  Itordor  lino. 

"But  you  must  n't  Htay  horo;  it'll  ho  dark  protty 
quick,"  said  Mr.  Spicor.  Now  my  idea  is,  that  you 
two  mon,  with  Klijah  to  help  you,  had  hcttor  sail 
around  to  Saokott's  at  once.  1  '11  go  hy  land,  and 
Boc  Colonel  Hettinger,  aiul  arrange  for  tho  caro  of 
your  cargo,  and  then  you  can  come  right  back  to  our 
house. " 

His  scheme  was  agreed  to,  and  in  a  few  minutes 
both  boats  were  under  sail  on  their  way  to  Sackctt'8 
Harbor,  which  was  distant  by  water  about  three 
miles.  Mr.  Spicer  went  by  land,  riding  one  horse 
and  leading  the  other;  and  as  he  had  only  two  miles 
to  go,  ho  arrived  hjng  before  the  boats. 

It  was  a  strange  story  he  had  to  tell  Colonel  Bot- 
tinger  when  ho  was  ushered  into  his  presence;  but 
ho  found  a  willing  listener,  and  was  often  interrupted 
in  his  account  by  the  Colonel's  exclamations. 

When  his  story  was  finished  the  Colonel  said: 
"They're  great  boys.  They've  done  a  great  piece 
of  work,  and  something  must  be  done  for  them.  I  '11 
detail  a  squad  of  men  to  look  after  this  prize  stuff 


■■I 


H*K'^^«i 


..,«y»r^«.^»-,tf»tP.,-Jr;t»:(!.l,<aE£&ii». 


THE  SEARCH    FOR  ANDREW  FIELD 


of  theirs,  and  to-morrow  you  can  come  over  and 
we  '11  see  what 's  to  be  done." 

Accordingly,  when  the  two  boats  arrived,  they 
found  a  squad  of  soldiers  awaiting  them.  The  cook 
was  a  little  abashed  at  the  sight  at  first,  but  when 
he  understood  their  errand,  he  was  sure  he  knew  all 
about  it. 

It  was  finally  decided  that  the  cargo  should  be 
unloaded  at  once  and  carried  to  the  garrison.  This 
took  some  time,  and  it  was  dark  when,  at  last,  after 
Mr.  Spiccr  had  obtained  two  more  horses,  the  little 
party  of  four  set  out  at  a  rapid  pace  for  the  honie 
of  Andrew  and  David.  The  house  was  all  dark,  and 
silence  was  over  all,  when  they  rode  up  before  the 
door  and  called  to  Andrew  for  admittance. 


t   r^***^k 


over  ai)(l 

•ed,  they 
The  cook 
but  when 
knew  all 

ihould  be 
m.  This 
a  at,  after 
tlie  little 
the  home 
dark,  and 
eforc  the 


CONCLUSION 


305 


CHAPTER  XXXV 


CONCLUSION 


IT  was  a  warm  welcome  the  travellers  received, 
when  Andrew  came  to  the  door  with  a  candle 
in  his  hand.  Mr.  Spicer  and  Elijah  insisted  upon 
going  on  to  their  own  home,  as  they  knew  that 
Henry  was  there  alone;  but  the  hermit  and  the  cook 
were  cared  for  by  Andrew. 

The  hermit  was  as  gentle  as  a  woman,  and  only 
grasped  the  hand  of  Andrew,  and  whispered,  "  Keep 
up  your  heart,  my  boy.  Your  mother  '11  need  you 
more  than  ever  now."  Andrew  responded  only  by 
a  pressure  of  the  hand,  and  as  soon  as  his  guests 
had  eaten,  he  led  them  to  the  room  above  and  left 
them  for  the  night. 

It  was  a  sad  household  the  visitors  found  on  the 
following  morning.  Mrs.  Field  was  warm  in  her 
thanks,  and  declared  that  the  one  bright  spot  in  her 
life  now  was  that  her  boys  had  both  come  safely 
home.  She  listened  with  pleasure  to  the  stories  the 
hermit  told  of  the  courage  of  the  boys,  and  often  a 
smile  would  steal  over  her  sad  face  as  his  word-* 
became  specially  warm. 

20 


'^ 


;,-»  vmit'mm.' '.'  I'lwiia'.'ciniwitmn*' 


306 


THE  SEAUCH  FOR  ANUKEW   FIELD 


About  nine  o'clock  the  Spiccr  boys  rode  up  to  tho 
house  and  dismounted.  It  was  soon  decided  that 
they  and  the  hermit  should  go  over  to  Sack(:tt's 
Harbor  to  consult  with  Colonel  Bettinger  about  their 
property,  and  that  Mr.  Spicer  should  soon  follow. 
The  cook  declined  to  go,  declaring  that  his  wooden 
leg  so  bothered  the  horse  he  rode  on  the  previous 
evening,  that  he  was  in  constant  danger  of  being 
thrown. 

The  little  party  set  forth  at  once,  and  met  with  a 
warm  greeting  from  the  Colonel.  He  insisted  upon 
hearing  their  story  in  full,  and  often  turned  from 
the  hermit,  who  was  the  spokesman,  to  the  boys,  to 
whom  he  gave  words  of  praise  in  full  measure. 

"I  think  you  boys  have  shown  yourselves  men 
enough  to  have  a  place  in  tVie  army.  I  think  we 
shall  liave  need  soon  of  all  the  men  we  can  get.  But 
about  your  prize  money,"  he  continued,  "I  suppose 
you  want  to  know  about  that  Well,  I  've  had  your 
guns  and  stuff  stored,  and  it'll  take  a  little  time 
before  we  can  just  say  what  your  shares  will  be. 
But  the  chest  I  've  had  brought  in  here ;  it 's  heavy 
enough  to  have  something  good  in  it.  There  's  no 
law  about  it,  if  it  does.  But  we  '11  soon  see  what  is 
in  it,"  he  added,  rising;  and,  going  to  the  door,  he 
sent  a  message  for  a  carpenter  to  come  and  bring 
some  tools. 

It  was  a  difficult  job  to  open  the  heavy  chest,  and 


""^ 


CONCLUSION 


307 


while  the  work  was  going  on  the  boys  stood  by  in 
silence,  watching  the  work  with  intense  eagerness. 
At  last  the  fastenings  were  cut  loose,  and  the  cover 
was  raised. 

"Ho!"  said  the  Colonel,  "it  looks  as  if  it  was  all 
lead,"  and  he  took  bar  after  bar  of  solid  lead  out  of 
the  chest,  and  laid  them  on  the  floor.  "It's  likely 
they  wanted  some  bullets.  That 's  what  they  were 
going  to  do,  —  run  this  lead  into  bullets.  Perhaps 
we  won't  disappoint  them  much,  for  it  may  get  into 
bullets  after  all." 

The  boys  were  disappointed,  as  they  had  hoped 
that  something  more  valuable  than  lead  was  in  the 
chest.  They  said  nothing,  however,  but  silently 
watched  the  process  of  taking  out  the  lead  bars. 

They  came  to  the  bottom,  and  lead  was  all  they 
found.  "  That 's  all  there  is,  boys.  It 's  good  stuff, 
and  will  bring  you  something,  but  not  so  much  as  I 
had  hoped, "  said  the  colonel,  "  and  not  so  much  as 
you  had  hoped  either,  I  fear. "  A.nd  he  looked  around 
upon  the  faces  that  showed  only  too  clearly  their 
disappointment. 

The  hermit  had  been  silent  all  the  while,  and  had 
been  carefully  watching  the  work.  It  was  only 
when  the  Colonel  had  finished  speaking  that  he  said, 
"  Do  you  see,  Colonel,  how  much  thicker  one  end  o' 
that  chest  is  than  the  other?  Mebbc  there's  some- 
thin'  in  there." 


,  • 


* 


308  THE  SKAUCII  FOR   ANDREW  FIELD 

A  careful  examination  convinced  the  carpenter 
that  there  was  some  kind  of  a  receptacle  in  the 
heavy  end  of  the  chest,  and  he  at  once  began  to 
cut  there.  It  was  slow  work,  and  seemed  to  the  on- 
lookers needlessly  so,  as  they  watched  his  work. 
After  a  time  the  carpenter  broke  through  the  wall, 
and,  inserting  his  hand,  drew  forth  a  heavy  leather 
bag.  The  boys'  eyes  sparkled,  and  the  Colonel  him- 
self was  greatly  excited. 

"You  open  it.  Colonel,"  said  the  hermit,  quietly. 

The  Colonel  did  as  the  hermit  suggested,  and 
drew  out  several  pieces  of  gold.  "It's  English 
money,"  he  said.  "They 're  crowns."  Another  bag 
was  also  found  inside,  and  then  they  counted  their 

possessions. 

"  It  is  n't  80  very  much,  after  all,"  said  the  Colonel. 
"I  suppose  it's  about  three  hundred  dollars  in  our 

money." 

"Three  hundred  dollars!"  said  Henry  to  hia 
father,  who  just  then  came  in.  "Why,  wo  never 
can  spend  it  in  a  lifetime." 

The  Colonel  only  smiled  as  he  replaced  the  money 
in  the  bag,  and  turned  to  the  hermit  and  Mr.  Spicer 
for  instructions. 

"  I  think  we  'd  better  leave  everything  here  with 
you  till  we  know  about  the  other  stuff,  too,"  said 
the  hermit;  and  it  was  finally  decided  that  that 
should  be  done. 


I' 


»3 


u      / 


s 


I 


iiiiillMWillUlMM^^ 


. 


rpcntcr 
in   the 

cgaii  to 
the  on- 

j   work. 

lie  wall, 
leather 

lel  him- 

quietly. 
ted,  and 
English 
ither  bag 
ed  their 

Colonel. 
rs  in  our 

y  to  hiiJ 
wo  never 

tie  money 
r.  Spicer 


hefe  with 


that  that 


CONCLUSION 


809 


* 


i 


"Come  over  again  in  a  few  days,  perhaps  in 
about  a  week  from  now,"  said  the  Colonel,  "and 
we'll  settle  everything  up." 

They  bade  him  good  by,  and  set  out  for  home. 
The  boys  were  greatly  excited,  and  could  talk  of 
nothing  but  the  prize  money  and  what  they  would  do 
with  their  share.  They  had  spent  the  money,  in 
their  mind,  in  three  or  four  ways,  before  they  drew 
up  at  Andrew's  door. 

During  the  week  which  must  elapse  before  they 
went  to  Sackett's  Harbor  again,  the  hermit  and  the 
cook  remained  at  Andrew's,  and  were  made  to  feel 
at  once  they  were  members  of  the  family.     There 
were  many  things  about  the  place  that  needed  their 
careful  attention.     The  hermit  busied  himself  about 
the  barn,   making   some  repairs  that  were    sadly 
needed,  while  the  cook  insisted  upoa  relieving  Mrs. 
Field  of  many  of  her  duties  in  th?  house.     Henry 
and  Elijah  were  back  and  forth  every  day  between 
the  places,  and  a  part  of  the  time  the  visitors  spent 
at  thoir  home.     The  rugged  times  left  little  oppor- 
tunity for  grief,  and  Andrew's  mother  roused  herself 
to  do  the  work  which  she  knew  must  be  done.     But 
hours  of  sorrow  came  to  her,  and  the  boys  became 
her  cohsolation  many  a  time.     "I  must  live  for  my 
boys,"  she  would  say,  and  resolutely  ^usy  herself  in 
their  behalf. 

After  the  division  had  been  made  by   Cjlonel 


310  THE  SEARCH  FOR   ANDREW   FIELD 

Beitinjicr,  each  member  of  the  party  found  himself 
in  possession  of  a  aum  which,  while  small  in  itself, 
made  the  possessor  feel  rich.  And  in  the  purchasing 
power  of  his  money  he  was  so. 

The  hermit  and  the  cook  remained  for  some  time 
with  them,  at  the  urgent  request  of  Andrew  and  his 
mother.     But  they  became  more  restless  every  day. 
The  boys  would  find  the  hermit  in  the  yard  seated 
under  one  of  the  great  maple  trees.    When  asked  for 
the  cause  of  his  sadness^  he  would  at  first  make  no 
reply,  but  would  admit  finally  that  he  was  thinking 
how  homeless  he  was.     When  told  that  he  would 
always  find  a  home  with  them,  he  would  smile  and 
assure  them  that  he  appreciated  their  kindness,  but 
that  he  must  soon  decide  what  he  should  do.     His 
home  among  the  islands  had  been  burned,  and  in- 
deed  it  was  not  safe  for  him  to  attempt  to  live  there 
in  such  times  anyway. 

One  day,  when  a  month  had  passed  by,  and  he 
and  Andrew  were  talking  in  this  way,  they  saw  far 
down  the  road  a  man  or  boy  coming  on  horseback 
towards  them.  When  finally  he  drew  rein  'ear 
thorn,  holding  forth  a  letter,  he  asked  if  either  of 
them  was  Mr.  Ogdcn. 

The  hermit  rose,  and  taking  the  missive,  broke 
the  seal  and  read.  Andrew  watched  his  face  as  he 
read,  but  he  could  make  nothing  of  the  impression 
the  contents  made  upon  the  reader. 


i 


h  ? 


mm 


1/ 


t^ 


himself 
1  itself, 
'chasing 

[ne  time 
and  his 
ery  day. 
d  seated 
isked  for 
make  no 
thinkinp^ 
16  would 
mile  and 
ness,  but 
do.     His 
and  in- 
ive  there 

',  and  he 
y  saw  far 
lorscback 
•ein  7  ear 
either  of 

ve,  broke 
face  as  he 
mpression 


I 


CONCLUSION 


811 


When  he  had  finished  the  second  reading,  he 
handed  the  letter,  without  a  word,  to  Andrew,  who 
read  the  following  note. 

The  Barracks,  Sackrtt's  Harbor,  Nbw  York, 
August  20,  1812. 

Mr.  James  Ogden,  Esq.  —Dear  Sir:  It  has  come  to 
my  positive  knowledge  that  Edward  Smith,  the  smug- 
gler, whom  you  met  in  several  encounters,  has  proved  to 
bo  a  traitor  to  his  country.  He  has  been  enrolled  in  the 
British  navy  at  Kingston,  and  by  his  traitorous  act  his 
property  becomes  confiscated.  It  has  occurred  to  me 
that  the  farm  he  owned  a  few  miles  beyond  the  Spicers', 
now  that  by  confiscation  it  is  no  longer  the  property  of 
Smith,  you  yourself  might  desire  to  secure.  If  so,  I 
think  I  could  aid  you.  I  understand  that  it  has  a  good 
log  hoube  on  it  and  a  small  barn.  Kindly  let  me  know 
your  wishes.    Your  obedient  servant, 

Edward  Bettinger. 

Andrew  looked  at  the  hermit.  "Mebbe,  mebbe," 
he  said,  slowly,  in  reply  to  Andrew's  glance,  "that's 
what  I  've  been  a  waitin'  for.  We  '11  go  over  there 
and  take  a  look  at  the  place  anyway." 

Accordingly,  they  rode  over  there  on  the  following 
morning.  The  place  was  deserted,  but  the  hermit 
was  delighted.  There  was  a  long  view  of  the  lake 
from  the  house,  which  especially  pleased  him,  and 
he  at  once  decided  that  if  he  could  make  suitable 
arrangements,  he  would  take  the  place.     These  were 


il.MIMtMf '  -"^-VJBflMWIP* 


I 


312 


TIIK   SKAKCIl   I'OU  ANDHEW   IIKLD 


ciisily  settled  after  a  visit  to  the  Colonel,  and  the 
lierniit  and  the  cook  soon  took  up  their  abode  in 
Sinitii's  former  liomc. 

Here  they  lived  until  the  war  was  ended,  when 
they  went  baek  to  the  iHliiuds  on  which  the  hermit 
had  formerly  mude  his  home;  Itut  every  winter  they 
eauu!  baek  to  the  farm  which  once  had  belonged  to 
Smith. 

As  for  Smith  himself,  occasional  reports  came  of 
his  deeds,  but  he  never  returned  to  disturb  the  new 
possessor  of  his  old  liome.  Occasional  rumors  also 
came  of  a  man  who  was  Smith's  constant  companion, 
and  the  boys  had  no  difficulty  in  recognizing  him  as 
the  prisoner  they  had  taken  at  the  cave  of  the 
smugglers  among  the  Thousand  Islands. 

It  was  not  long  before  Andrew  began  to  make 
visits  to  Mr.  Potter's,  where  the  boys  had  stopped 
over  night  on  their  journey  in  search  of  their 
brother.  The  visits  only  ceased  when  the  black- 
eyed  Potter  girl,  of  whom  David  had  spoken  to 
Elijah,  came  to  Andrew's  home  to  stay. 

The  times  became  harder  and  harder;  the  war 
began  to  make  its  sufferings  and  demands  upon  all. 
After  Colonel  Bettinger  had  made  several  visits,  it 
was  finally  decided  that  the  boys  should  enlist. 
Andrew  and  David  went  into  the  navy,  and  Elijah 
and  Henry  entered  the  army.  The  old  preacher 
remained  at  home  with  Andrew's  wife  and  mother. 


^1 


CONCLUSION 


r.i3 


! 


nnd  llic  Iiennit  and  the  cook  wfre  frt'qiiont  vihitors 
lliero,  and  were  of  grout  assistance  during  the  ubseuce 
of  tlio  boys. 

What  befell  our  heroes  wo  must  leave  for  another 
story,  to  be  called  "The  Uoy  .^oldiers  of  1812." 
How  and  where  they  met  Smith  again,  how  they 
took  a  prisonoJ-  and  how  one  of  the  boys  himself  was 
captured,  how  they  conducted  themselves  in  some 
of  the  great  battles,  how  the  hermit  dealt  with  a 
deserter,  and  many  other  experiences  they  had,  we 
shall  there  relate ;  but  that  they  acquitted  them- 
selves in  all  ways  like  men,  every  one  must  know 
who  has  followed  them  in  these  pages  in  their  search 
for  Andrew  Field. 


« 


,1 


4 


THB   END 


, 


OLIVER  OPTICS  BOOKS 


All-Over-tlio-WorUI     Srrlon.      B.v   Oi  ivkr    Oi-tic.      F!r»t 

ScricK.     JlluBtrnUHl.     Hricu  per  vnliiim',  $1.25. 
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MoTHKH.  .  ,,,  , 

3.  A  V.MIIIK  Knight  Krrnnl:  oh.  Chiisino  in  rii«  West  Inoiks. 

4.  Mtr»nK»  MlRht*  Abroad ;  ok,  Abvinturks  in  EuwuitAN  Watkks. 

AU-Over-tlio-World     SorioH.     By  Oliver    Oitic.    Second 
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I.nuls  Is  n  fine  youiiK  fellow  with  gimd  principlcH.     But  lie  tines  not  have 
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(Olhtr  voliimn  in  friparatiim.) 

Yonnff  Amcricn.  broad:  A  Liii«ary  of  Travri  and 
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1.  Outward  Bound;  OH,  YouNO  America  Afloat. 

5:  Hhlnirock  and  ThUtle;   oh,  Youno  America  in   Ikei  .ni,  ani> 

S    Be^f  Cr'i^'i^'oR,  Yoi;No  America  in  England  and  Walks. 

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«.  Palace 'and   CottaRe;    or.    Youno   America    in    France    and 

SwITJIEKLANI).  ,  _    _„.„„ 

0.  Down  the  Hhlne;  or.  Young  America  in  Germany. 

"The  story  from  its  Inception,  and  throiiijh  the  twelve  volumes  (see  Second 
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fountrw  of  Europe  an.fthe  isles  of  the  sea  is  not  only  correct  in  every  parlic.i- 
1«  but  is  told  in  a  captivating  stvle.  OLIVER  Optic  will  continue  to  be  the 
bovs-  >ien  1,  and  his  pleasant^books  will  continue  to  be  r-^ad  by  thousands  of 
Americin  I'oys.  What  a  fine  holiday  present  either  or  both  "eriei.  of '  Vonng 
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highlyjrized  by  the  recipient,  and  would  not  be  an  expensive  one."-/'r<»r.- 
denct  Press. 

Youn?  America  Abroad.  By  Oliver  Optic.  Second  Series. 
Six  volumes.  Illustrated.  Any  volume  sold  separately. 
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3  Cross  and  Cresce'nt;  oh,  Youno  America  in  Turkey  and  Greece. 

4  Suliiiy  Shores;  or,  Youno  America  in  Italy  and  Austria. 

«:  Vine  and  OHve;  or.  Youno  America  in  Spain  and  Portugal. 

%.  Isl"l  of  th"  Sea;  or,  Young  America  Homeward  Bound. 

"  Oliver  Optic  is  a  Hom  df  plume  that  is  known  and  loved  by  almost  evcrv 
boy  of  infelllgence  in  the  land. ''  We  have  seen  a  highly  inte  lee  ual  a"J;vorkf. 
weanr  man,  a  cynic  whose  heart  was  somewhat  emiiittered  by  its  large  cxper  • 
*rccM)f  human  nature,  take  up  one  of  Oliver  Optic's  books,  and  read  it  at  a 
Vmne  neglecting  his  work  in  yielding  to  the  fascination  of  the  pages.  ^  hen 
a  Srrifnd  exceedingly  well-informed  mind,  long  desijoiled  ol  all  ,U  fresh- 
ness.  can  thus  find  pleasure  in  a  book  for  boys,  no  additional  words  of  recon.. 
ir.endation  are  needed."— 5«»i/a>'  Times. 

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I 


I 


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ir  is  Hiillirirnt  w  irraiit  nP  the  ahsiirhinK  Htyk'nt  narrativv,    'I'his 


lii'ii-ntly  liiilica 
dI'Olivkk  Ol-TI 

xcrit's  is  as  hriitht  anil  iiilirtaininK  as  any  wiirli  that  Mr.  AliAMH  has  yet  put 
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,  from  tlir  uni'xpi'i'ti'd  liy  rntirini;  into  a  synopsis  of  Ihi'  Htory,     A  word,  how- 

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4.  Work  Hiiil  Win;  ok,  Noddv  Nkwman  on  a  Ckiiisk, 

a.  llo|i«  iinil  llikv<>;  OK,  Fanny  Okant  among  tiik  Indians 
e.  Ilnntn  nnil  WiiHt<s  ok,  Tiik  Viuino  I'ii.ot  op  Lake  Ciiamplain. 
"Tliounh  wo  are  not  so  young  as  we  oiu?c  wire,  wc  relished  these  stories 
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really  refreshing,  ewn  to  us.  'I  here  is  inui  h  in  tlieni  whieh  is  cali'iilated  tu 
inspire  a  generous,  healthy  ambition,  and  to  make  distasteful  all  readin);  tend- 
ing to  stimuliitu  base  desires."  —  Fitchhiirg  Heveillt. 

The  Starry  Flajf  Serlos.    By  Oi.ivkr  Optic.    In  six  volnnies. 

liliiKtrated.     Any  volume  solti  separately.     Price  per  volume, 

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3.  Hc«<k  rtnd  Find;  oh.  The  Aoventuhes  of  a  Smaht  Hov. 

4.  Kri'ukH  of  Fortums  ok.  Half  koind  the  VVokld. 
n.   Mukit  or  lln^ak;  ok,  The  Uich  Man's  Dauuiitf.k. 

H.  Down  the  River;  ok,  ISuck  Bhadkokd  and  the  Tyhants, 
"Mr.  Adams,  the  celebrated  and  popular  writer,  familiarly  known  as  Olive;i 
Oi'TIC,  seems  to  have  inexhaustible  funds  for  weavinir  toj;ether  the  virtues  of 
life;  and,  notwilhstandin);  he  has  written  scores  of  books,  the  same  freshness 
anil  novelty  run  throujjh  them  all.  Some  people  think  the  sensational  element 
predominates.  Perhaps  it  does.  Iliit  a  book  for  youn^  people  needs  this,  and 
so  long  as  good  sentiments  arc  inculcated  such  books  ouj;hl  to  be  read." 

Just  His  Luck.     By  Oliver  Optic.     Illustrated.    $1.00. 

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who  delight  in  playing  pranks,  and  who  are  ever  ready  for  any  sort  of  mischief; 
and  with  boys  In  whom  human  nature  is  strongly  engrafted.  Thev  are  boys, 
us  many  of  us  have  been;  boys  in  the  true,  unvarnished  sense  oTthe  woi^; 
boys  with  hopes,  ideas,  and  inspirations,  but  lacking  in  judgment,  self-control, 
and  discipline.  And  the  book  contains  an  apprn^iriate  moral,  teaches  many  a 
lesson,  and  presents  many  u  precept  worthy  ot  being  followcu.  It  is  a  cupitiU 
book  for  boys." 


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no  ninl  K^ny, 
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I  |iH«-iiilMityin,  U 
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ri'iiu'iiiIxT  with 
Hi,  instruct,  iiiiij 
title  tliMt  Is  A\i(- 
wliilf  the  nanu! 
iiiirrativv.  'I'liiH 
IMS  liiis  yet  put 
Kiinv.  It  would 
«t  wliiih  couii-s 
A  word,  how. 

ofthv  liindlh);, 

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rHANT. 

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ational  element 
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read.'"* 


l>e 


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iess  many  noble 
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ie  of' the  word; 
:nt,  self-control, 
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4.  <lolii|{  Nniitli;  OH,  Vai'mtini,  on  tiik  Ari.ANTic  t'oAxr. 
n.    Itowii  Hiiiilli;  OH,  Yacht  Auvkntihkh  in  I'I.ohiha. 
fl.   I'p  the  Itlviir;  OH,  Yaciitino  on  tiik  Mimsisnii'I'I, 

"Tills  Is  the  latest  series  of  lionks  issued  hv  this  popular  writer,  and  deals 
with  lile  (Ml  the  (ireat  Lakes,  for  which  ii  careful  study  wus  maile  liy  the  author 
ill  A  suinuier  tour  of  llie  iiiimense  water  sources  of  America.  The  story,  vvhii'li 
carri«:H  the  s.nne  hero  throiiuh  the  six  btKiks  of  the  Neries,  is  always  entertaiiw 
iii^,  novel  sceiu'H  and  varied  incidents  ^ivini;  a  constantly  chaii^iii^  yet  always 
attractive  aspect  to  the  narrative.    ()I.1VKH  Ul'TIc  has  written  nothing  better," 

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Illiistrnted.     Any  volume  Hold  separately.     Price  per  volume, 
$1.50. 
1.  Little  Itobtall;  OR,  TiiF.  VVhrck  or  tiik  Pknohscot. 

9.  Till*  Ynrlit  <;liih;  oh,   Tiik  Young  Boat  IIuildkhs, 
8.    Moiiey-^lnkt-r;  oh,  tiik  Victory  i      tiik  IIasii.isk, 

4.  Tlic  ('oiiiliiK  Wiivc;  oh,  Tiik  Thka:   ihk  ok  IIioii  Rock. 

n.  The  Itomitt  Club;  oh,  Ouh  (iirlh  /    loat. 

n,  OecHii  Horn;  oh,  Tiik  Ckimsk  op  t.i.  C'i.uii4. 

"The  series  has  this  peculiarity,  that  all  of  .is  const  Uient  vnli.neH  are  Inde- 
pendent  of  one  another, and  therefore  each  story  is  complete  in  its<'lf.  Oliver 
Oi'TU:  is,  perhaps,  the  favorite  author  of  the  iio'ys  and  y;'-)*  of  tb's  country,  and 
he  seems  destined  to  enjov  an  endless  popularity,  lie  deserv.  his  success, 
for  he  makes  very  inti'restln|(  stories,  and  inculc'ites  none  bni  the  best  senti. 
ments,  and  the  'Yacht  Club'  is  nu  exception  to  thi  lul  — AVw  J/f ,  1 
yoiirnal  and  CoHritr, 


In 


1.   t 
ice 


EFREE. 


Onward  and  Upward  Series.    By  Oliver  Optic. 

volumes.     Illustrated.     Any  volume  sold  separately 

per  volume,  $1,25, 
1.  Klelil  and  Foroat;  or.  Tub  Fortunes  op  a  Fa  '  '.  1 
8.  I'lane  and  Vlank;  ok,  Tiik  Mishaps  op  a  Mk<  .ia:  .    . 

3.  Desk  and  I>«l>lt;  ok,  The  Catastkoi-iikh  of  t  Clxh  :. 

4.  Crlnnrln  anil  Oroimtree;  on.  The  .Sea  Swasiib!   ok  a  -.  mlor, 

5.  lllvouao  and  Kattle;  or,  Tiik  STHuaoLES  ok  a  .Soi.diei'. 

6.  Men  ami  Shore;  or.  The  Thami-s  op  a  Tkaveli.eh. 

"Paul  Karringford,  the  hero  of  these  tales,  is,  like  most  of  this  author's 
heroes,  a  youoK  man  of  hi^h  spirit,  and  of  hiuh  aims  and  correct  urinciples, 
appearinK  in  tne  different  volumes  ns  n  farnier,  it  captain,  1  bookkeeper,  a 
soldier,  a  sailor,  and  a  traveller.  In  all  of  them  the  hero  inects  with  very 
exciting  adventures,  told  in  the  graphic  style  for  which  the  author  is  famous,'' 

The  Lake  Shore  Series.    By  Olivkr  Optic.    In  six  volumes. 
Illustrated,     Any  volume  sold  separately,     1  lico  per  volume, 
$1.25. 
%,  ThrouKh  by  Dayllf(ht;  or,  The  Youno  Engineer  of  the  Lakb 

Shore  Railhoad. 
S.  lilghtnlni;  KxpreHs;  or.  The  Rival  Academies, 

3,  On  Time;  oR,  The  Young  Cai'taxn  of  the  Ucavga  Steamer. 

4,  Switoh  Off;  oh.  The  War  op  the  Students. 

5,  Brake  Vii;  ok.  The  Young  Pkacemakehs. 

O.  Bear  and  Forlteur;  or,  The  Young  Skipper  of  Lake  Ucavoa, 
"  Oliver  Oi'TIC  is  one  of  the  most  fascinating  writers  for  youth,  and  withal 
one  of  the  best  to  be  found  in  this  o-  miv  past  age.  Troops  of  young  people 
h.iiii;  over  his  vivid  pai;es;  audnotone'  :  i'  ■  n  ever  learned  to  be  mean,  ignoble, 
cn^vardly,  selfish,  or  to  yield  to  any  ■.  Ii .  !■  .  i  anything  they  ever  read  Ircm  his 
fKn."  —  Providence  Press. 

LEE  AND  8HEPARD,  BOSTON.  SEND  THEIR  COMPLETE  CATALOBUE  FREE, 


LEE  AND  SHEPARD'S  ILLUSTRATED  JUVENILES 


J.  T.   TROWBRIDGE'S  BOOKS 


The  Fortunes  of  Toby  Trafford.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge. 

Illustrated.    $1.25. 

"  If  to  make  chiklrcii's  stories  as  true  to  nature  as  the  stories  which  the 
masters  of  fiction  write  for  children  of  a  larj;er  growth  be  an  uncommon 
achievement,  and  one  that  is  worthy  of  wide  recognition,  that  recognition 
should  he  given  to  Mr.  J.  T.  Tkowuhidok  for  his  many  achievements  in  this 
diflicult  walk  of  literary  art.  Mr.  Tkowbridoe  has  a  good  perception  of  char- 
i  acter,  which  he  draws  with  skill;  he  has  abundance  of  invention,  which  he 
never  abuses;  and  he  has,  what  so  many  American  writers  have  not,  an  easy, 
pniccful  style,  which  can  be  humorous,  or  pathetic,  or  poetic."  — V?.//.  Stoddard 
in  New  York  Mail. 


THE  START  IN  HFE  SERIES.    4  volumes. 

A  Start  In  Life;  A  Story  of  the  Genesee  Country.    By 
J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.00. 

In  this  story  the  author  recounts  the  hardships  of  a  young  lad  in  his  first 
endeavor  to  start  out  for  himself.  It  is  a  tale  that  is  full  of  enthusiasm  and 
budding  hopes.  I'he  writer  shows  how  hard  the  youths  of  a  century  ago  were 
conipi'lled  to  work.  This  he  does  in  an  entertaining  way,  minglicig  fun  and 
adventures  with  their  daily  labors.  The  hero  is  a  striking  example  of  the 
honest  boy,  who  is  not  too  lazy  to  work,  nor  too  dull  to  thoroughly  appreciate 
a  joke. 

Biding  His  Time.     By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.00. 

"  It  is  full  of  spirit  and  adventure,  and  presents  a  plucky  hero  who  was  willing 
to  '  bide  his  time,'  no  matter  how  great  the  expectations  that  he  indulged  in 
from  his  uncle's  vast  wealth,  which  he  did  not  in  the  least  covet.  .  .  .  He  was 


employment  in  a  humble  way,  and  proves  that  he  is  a  persevering  and  plucky 
young  mM\."  —  Boston  Home  Journal. 

The  Kelp  Gatherers:   A  Story  of  the  Maine  Coast.    By 
J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.00, 

This 
shore 

story,  -  ,    ,      . 

depicting  which  the  author  is  an  acknowledged  master. 

Tlie    Scarlet    Tanager,    and    Other    Bipeds.     By  J.    T. 
Trowbridge.     Illustrated.     $1.00. 

Every  newstor,  which  Mr.  Trowbridge  begins  is  followed  through  succes 
sive  chapters  by  thousands  who  have  read  and  re-read  many  times  his  precedinfi 
tales.    One  of 'his  greatest  charms  is  his  absolute  truthfulness      "-  ' 


^is  bonk  is  full  of  interesting  information  upon  the  plant  life  of  the  sea- 
•e,  and  che  life  of  marine  animals;  but  it  is  also  a  bright  and  readable 
V   with  all  the  hints  of  character  and  the  vicissitudes  of  human  life,  in 


He  does  not 
depfct  little  saints,  or  incorrisrible  rascals,  but  just  boys.  This  same  fidelity  10 
nature  is  seen  in  his  latest  book,  "  Ihe  Scarlet  Tai 


nature  is  seen  in  his  latest  dook,  ••  1  iie  .^cariei  i'ariaj?er,  and  Other  Bipeds." 
There  is  enough  adventure  in  this  tale  to  conim.enc'  it  to  the  liveliest  reader, 
and  all  the  lessons  it  teaches  are  wholesome. 

LEF  AND  SHEPARD,  BOSTON.  SEND  THEIR  COMPLETE  CATALOGUE  FREE 


INILES 


L8 


ROWBRIDGE. 

)ries  which  the 
:in  uncommon 
hat  recognition 
vemcnts  in  this 
ceptlon  of  chiir- 
ition,  which  he 
ve  not,  an  easy, 
R.  H.  Stoddard 


JUNTRY.      By 

lad  in  his  first 
enthusiasm  and 
entury  ago  were 
in);liii^  fun  and 
example  of  the 
ighly  appreciate 

■ated.    $1.00. 

who  was  willing 
t  he  indulged  in 
et.  .  .  .  I^ic  was 
I  after  heard  of  a 
urney  to  Boston, 
y  him,  but  seeks 
:ring  and  plucliy 

;  Coast.    By 

t  life  of  the  sea- 
;ht  and  readable 
f  human  life,  in 

.     By  J.    T. 

I  through  succes- 
les  his  precedinf; 
ss.  He  does  not 
s  same  fidelity  10 
d  Other  Bipeds." 
!  liveliest  reader, 


JE  FRcL 


J.  T.  TROWBRIDGE'S  BOOKS 


THE  TIDE-MILl,  STORIES.    6  voIuincB. 
Phil  and  His  Friends.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated. 
$1.25. 

The  hero  is  the  son  of  a  man  who  from  drink  cot  into  debt,  and,  after  havinu; 
civcn  a  paper  to  a  creditor  authoriEini»  him  toTiecp  the  son  as  a  security  li>r 
his  claim,  ran  away,  leaviiii;  poor  I'hil  a  bond  slave.  The  story  involves  a 
irreat  many  unexpected  inciilents,  some  of  which  arc  painful,  and  some  comic. 
Phil  mantully  works  for  a  year,  cuncellinij  his  father's  debt,  and  then  escapes. 
The  characters  are  strongly  drawn,  and  the  story  is  absorbingly  interesting. 

The  TInkham  Brothers'  Tide-Mill.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge. 

Illustrated.     $1.25. 

"  The  Tinkham  Brothers  "  were  the  devoted  sons  of  an  invalid  mother.  The 
story  tells  how  they  purchased  a  tide-mill,  which  aflerwa.  .  -,  by  the  ill-will  and 
obstinacy  of  neighbors,  became  a  source  of  much  trouble  to  tiicni.  It  tells  also 
how,  by  discretion  and  the  exercise  of  a  peaceable  spirit,  they  at  last  overcame 
all  difficulties. 

"Mr.  Trowbridge's  humor,  his  fidelity  to  nature,  and  story-tellmg  power 
lose  nothing  with  years;  and  he  stands  at  the  head  of  those  who  arc  furnishing 
a  literature  for  the  young,  clean  and  sweet  in  tone,  and  always  of  interest  and 
value."—  The  Continent. 

The  Satin-wood  Box.     By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.     Illustrated. 

$1.25. 

"  Mr.TKOWDRlDGE  has  always  a  purpose  in  his  writings,  and  this  time  he 
has  undertaken  to  show  how  very  near  an  innocent  boy  can  come  to  the  guilty 
edge  and  yet  be  able  by  fortunate  circumstances  to  rid  himself  of  all  suspicion 
of  evil  There  is  something  winsome  about  the  hero;  but  he  has  a  singular 
way  of  falling  into  bad  luc^,  although  the  careful  reader  will  never  leel  the 
least  disposed  to  doubt  his  honesty.  ...  It  is  the  pain  and  nerplexity  which 
impait  to  the  -lory  its  intense  interest."  —  A>>-af«.«?  Standard. 

Tlie  Little  Master.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.25. 

This  is  the  story  of  a  schoolmaster,  his  trials,  dis.ippointments,  and  final 
victorv  It  will  recall  to  many  a  man  his  experience  in  teaching  pupils,  and 
in  managing  their  opinionated  and  self-willed  parents.  The  story  has  the 
charm  which  is  always  found  in  Mr.  Tkowiihidi.s's  works. 

"  Many  a  teacher  could  profit  by  reading  of  this  plucky  little  schoolmaster." 
—  yournal  of  Education. 
His  One  Fault.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.25. 

"As  for  the  hero  of  this  story, '  H  is  One  Fault '  was  absent-mindedness.  He 
forgot  to  lock  his  uncle's  stable  door,  and  the  horse  was  stolen.  In  seeking  to 
recover  the  stolen  horse,  he  unintentionally  stoic  another.  In  trying  to  restore 
the  wrong  horse  to  his  rightful  owner,  he  was  himself  arrested.  After  no  end 
of  comic  and  dolorous  adventures,  he  surmounted  all  his  misfortunes  by  down- 
right  pluck  and  genuine  good  feeling.  It  is  a  noble  contribution  to  juvenile 
literature."  —  Woman's  yournal. 

Peter  Budstone.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.25. 

"  Trowdridge's  other  books  have  been  admirable  and  deservedly  popular, 
but  this  one,  in  our  opinion,  is  the  best  yet.  It  is  a  story  at  once  spirited  and 
touching,  with  a  certain  dramatic  and  artistic  quality  that  appeals  to  the  literary 
sense  as  well  as  to  the  story-loving  appetite.  In  it  Mr.  Trowbridge  has  not 
lectured  or  moralized  or  remonstrated;  he  has  simply  shown  boys  what  they 
are  doing  when  they  contemplate  hazing.  By  a  good  artistic  impulse  we  are 
not  shown  the  hazing  at  all ;  when  the  story  begins,  the  hazing  is  already  over, 
and  we  are  introduced  immediately  to  the  results.  It  is  an  artistic  touch  also 
that  the  boy  injured  is  not  hurt  because  he  is  a  fellow  of  delicate  nerves,  but  he- 
cause  of  his  very  strength,  and  the  power  with  which  he  resisted  until  overcome 
by  numbers,  and  subjected  to  treatment  which  left  him  insane.  His  insanily 
takes  the  form  of  harmless  delusion,  and  the  absurdity  of  his  ways  and  talk 
enables  the  author  to  lighten  the  sombreness  without  weakening  the  moral,  in 
a  way  that  ought  to  win  all  boys  to  his  side."  —  '"*'  /"— v.v 


-The  Critic. 


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,ia'illi«lWllW»llrll««riif>ailiMir'r'l'lli!ift-rilii 


—  »i|ii  ji  iia<ria»iri'i  uiriiiiS#i!te».i.¥*;-*ari?-;i  ■i,sV'irt4.faig< 


4 


J.  T.  TROWBRIDGE'S  BOOKS 


THE  SILVER  MEDAL   STORIES.    0  volii  nen. 


By  J.   T.  Trow- 


Tlie  Silver  Mndal,  and  Other  Stories. 
UKiotiE.     Illustrated.    $1.25. 

There  were  some  schoolboys  who  had  turned  housebreakers,  and  amon(f  their 

r hinder  was  a  silver  medal  thai  had  been  f^iveii  tn  one  John  Harrison  liy  the 
lumane  Society  for  rescuinjr  from  drowninif  a  certain  Henton  Barry.  Now 
lienton  Harry  was  one  of  the  wretched  housebrcakrrs.  This  is  the  summary 
of  the  opening  chapter.  The  story  is  intensely  intcicstinff  in  its  serious  .is 
well  us  its  humorous  parts. 

His  Own  Master.     By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.25. 

"This  is  a  iKMik  after  the  ty|)ical  boy's  own  heart.  Its  hero  is  a  pluckvyouni; 
fellow,  who,  seeing  no  chance  for  himself  at  home,  determines  to  make  Ins  own 
way  in  the  world.  .  .  .  He  sets  out  accordingly,  trudges  to  the  far  West,  and 
finds  the  ro.id  to  fortune  an  unpleasantly  rough  one."  —Philadelphia  Inquirer. 

"  We  class  this  as  one  of  the  best  stories  for  boys  we  ever  read.  The  tone  is 
perfectly  healthy,  and  the  interest  is  kept  up  to  the  end."  —  Boston  Home 
Journal. 

Bound  in  Honor.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.    $1.25.. 

This  story  is  of  a  lad,  who,  though  not  guilty  of  any  bad  action,  had  been  an 
eye-witness  of  the  conduct  of  his  comrades,  and  felt  "  Bound  in  Honor"  not 
to  tell. 

"The  glimpses  wc  get  of  New  England  character  are  free  from  any  distor- 
tion, and  their  huiaorous  phases  are  always  entertaining.  Mr.  Tkowuridge's 
brilliant  descriptive  faculty  is  shown  to  great  advantage  in  the  opening  chapter 
of  the  book  by  a  vivid  picture  of  a  villa,j^e  fire,  and  is  manifested  elsewhere  with 
equally  telling  eflect."  —  Boston  Courier. 

The  Pocket  Rifle.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illustrated.   $1.25. 

"A  boy's  story  which  will  be  read  with  avidity,  as  it  ought  to  be,  it  is  ;o 
brightly  and  frankly  written,  and  with  such  evident  knowledge  of  the  tempera- 
ments and  habits,  the  friendships  and  enmities  of  schoolboys."  —  New  York 
Mail. 

"  This  is  a  capital  story  for  boys,  Tkowbkioge  never  tells  a  story  poorly. 
It  teaches  honesty,  integrity,  and  friendship,  and  how  best  they  can  be  pro- 
moted. It  shows  the  danger  oi  hasty  judgment  and  circumstantial  evidence; 
thitt  right-doing  pays,  and  dishonesty  never." —  Chicago  Inter-Ocean. 

The  Jolly  Kover.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.     Illustrated.    $1.25. 

"This  book  will  help  to  neutralize  the  ill  effects  of  any  poison  which  children 
may  have  swallowed  in  the  way  of  sham-.idventurous  stories  and  wildl ,  fictitious 
tales.  'The  Jolly  Rover'  runs  away  from  home,  and  meets  life  as  it  is,  till  he 
is  glad  enough  to  seek  again  his  father's  house.  Mr.  Trowbridge  has  the 
power  of  making  an  instructive  story  absorbing  in  its  interest,  and  of  covering 
a  moral  So  that  it  is  easy  to  t;ike."— 'CAr/.v//a«  Intelligencer. 

Yoiingr  Joe,  and  Other  Bovs.    By  J.  T.  Trowbridge.    Illus- 
trated.   $1.25. 

"  Young  Joe,"  who  ;.ved  at  Bass  Cove,  where  he  shot  wild  ducks,  took  some 
to  towr  for  sale,  and  attracted  the  attention  of  a  |x>rtly  gentleman  fond  of  shoot- 
ing. This  gentleman  went  duck  shooting  with  Joe,  and  their  adventures  were 
more  amusing  to  the  l>oy  than  to  the  amateur  sportsman. 

There  are  thirteen  other  short  stories  in  the  book  which  will  be  sure  to  please 
the  young  folks. 

The  Yagrabonds:    An  Illustrated  Poem.    By  J.  T.  Trow- 
bridgr.    Clotli.    $1.50. 

"The  Vagiibonils  "  are  a  strolling  fiddler  and  his  dog.  The  fiddler  has  been 
ruined  by  drink,  and  his  monologue  is  one  of  the  most  pathetic  and  efieclive 
pieces  in  our  literature. 

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Jy  J.   T.   Trow- 

ers,  and  amnn^  their 
dIiii  Harrison  l)y  the 
Jcnton  Barry.  Now 
Phis  is  the  siininiary 
n^  in  its   serious  as 

lustrated.    $1.25. 

:ro  is  a  pluckvyounj^ 
ines  to  make  liis  own 
to  the  far  West,  and 
iladelphia  Inquirer. 
er  read.  The  tone  is 
id."  —  Boston  Home 


lustrated.    $1.25.. 

I  action,  had  been  an 
)und  in  Honor"  not 

Free  from  any  distor- 
Mr.  Tkowuridge's 
the  opening  chapter 

ested  elsewhere  with 


lustrated.    $1.25. 

ought  to  be,  it  is  ;o 
edge  of  the  tempera- 
Iboys."  —  Nrm  York 

■  tells  a  story  poorly, 
est  they  can  be  pro- 
inistantial  evidence; 
nter- Ocean. 

ustrated.    $1.25. 

oison  which  children 
5  and  wildl ,  fictitious 
Its  life  as  it  is,  till  he 
ROWBKiDGE  has  the 
rest,  and  of  covering 
er. 

IVBRIDGE.      Illus- 


ild  ducks,  took  some 
.leman  fond  of  shoot- 
heir  adventures  were 

ivill  be  sure  to  please 


By  J.  T.  Trow- 

The  fiddler  has  been 
lathetic  and  eSective 


LOGUE  FREL 


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